DANDENONG
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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Strong community support for Stubbs’ family
Fines taking a toll on motorists
Proud award for Hampton Park’s Ali Akber Rezaie
Lynbrook opener Tajbir Powar turning heads this season
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SPORT
Hodge makes a buzz Former Australian test cricketer and white ball master blaster Brad Hodge made a cameo appearance for Berwick Springs in the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) T20 competition much to the delight of cricket fans. STORY PAGE 11
Picture: RENAE WALKER
Murder charge By AAP Two teenagers, one from Dandenong, are accused of breaking into a Melbourne GP’s home, stealing shoes, a luxury wallet, computers and car keys, before murdering him. The 16-year-olds were arrested on Thursday 18 January following an investigation into the death of Ashley Gordon in Melbourne’s northeast earlier this month. The 33-year-old was found on Eildon Street in Doncaster about 5.30am by police responding to reports of an aggravated burglary at his Sargent Street home. They allege Dr Gordon was involved in a
LORETTA LYNN PATSY CLINE CONWAY TWITTY
confrontation where he was injured and died at the scene. The two boys, one from Dandenong and the other from Travancore, were charged with aggravated burglary, theft and murder after being interviewed by detectives. They are accused of entering the GP’s Doncaster unit with intent to steal and knowing Dr Gordon was home, charge sheets reveal. The documents allege they stole a pair of Nike Air Force shoes, Astro A50 headphones, a gaming computer and gaming laptop, a blue Louis Vuitton wallet with ID and bank cards, and keys to a Mitsubishi Triton, with a NXP tag, valued at $5000.
The teens faced a children’s court on Thursday afternoon last week flanked by three police officers. They stared straight ahead and remained silent during the brief hearing as future court dates were set. There was no application for bail. One of the boys’ lawyers said it was his first time in custody. The other boy refused to allow his parental guardian to be present when he was interviewed by police, a prosecutor told the court. The prosecutor said police were combing CCTV footage, analysing phones and awaiting
forensic analysis. She requested 12 weeks to compile a brief of evidence. The prosecution is also seeking parental approval to obtain DNA from the boys. The accused teens were returned to custody and will reappear on February 8 for the forensic application. They will then return for a committal mention on May 23. Earlier on Thursday, Serious Crime Division Superintendent Janet Stevenson said Dr Gordon was a much-loved and valued community member.
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NEWS
Rates capped for 2024-25 Truck convoy paying tribute to late truckie. 381663
Pictures: GARY SISSONS
Truckloads of love By Sahar Foladi The truckie community has raised more than $50,000 for the bereaved family of Johnny Stubbs. As reported previously by Star Journal, Johnny Stubbs, who worked for Dandenong South-based Membrey’s Transport and Crane Hire, was towing a low loader trailer and became stuck on a railway crossing about 12.15pm on Monday 11 December. The tragic incident left behind Mr Stubbs’ bereaved partner and children. The youngest son, who was two weeks old at that time, will be just one month old in a few days. A Go Fund Me page was set up on Monday 18 December and had garnered more than $36,000 from all over the country. Some even posted words of support. “As a trailer driver myself, like Johnny, it is a profession I love dearly, so this hit hard. “I will keep his family in my prayers during these hard times and just know that we truckies are sending positive energy to you all, Rest in peace old mate.” Mr Stubbs’ colleagues also raised a total of $6000. “We raised a fair bit for the family. Everyone chipped in so it was a nice send-off,” his employer Craig Membrey said. In addition, Mr Membrey also sold off his collectibles, some that were donated, at an eBay auction which raised $10,000 bringing the total to over $50,000 to support the grieving family. “It’s a beautiful country we live in and how generous the people are,” Mr Membrey said. “My favourite saying is to, ‘make it happen,’ and we did make it happen.” Anthony Bland commented on the Go Fund Me page, “Hopefully all this money raised will mean there is one less stress the family has to endure in this tragedy.”
Craig Membrey as he paid his tribute to Johnny Stubbs. 381663
The items sold were a Membrey’s LTR 1220 Crawler Crane (donated by Drake Collectibles), a Kenworth K200 Prime Mover, a Kenworth C509, a Membreys Kenworth T900 and
a 2022 Black Limited Edition Kenworth K200 Fat Cab with Ballast Box, a Membreys T9098 Director series 50th Birthday Satin Black (donated by Kevin Clarke) and a bar fridge.
Employees hit as Hiro Brands collapses By Sahar Foladi Major cosmetic and personal care group Hiro Brands Group has collapsed. The manufacturers, located in Dandenong went into voluntary administration on Tuesday 2 January. Ebony Everitt is one of the approximately 120 employees who received the surprise termination on the same day as administrators took control over the day-to-day operations of the operations. “We had left thinking we’ll come back to work again until I received an email saying I’m terminated. “There’s people out there who probably can’t feed their family because there’s no way they could just get another job next week. “If they had given us a warning, at least we could’ve saved up and not have spent too much on Christmas.” Employees are heading online to file Fair Entitlements Guarantee (FEG) to claim their more than a week’s worth of 2 STAR JOURNAL
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salary and superannuation. Appointed administrators by the Group will only “meet normal payroll costs and associated on cost including superannuation” for Tuesday 2 January, according to the letter sent to staff from administrators of KPMG. “We confirm that the Group does not have sufficient resources to meet any arrears of wages relating to the period prior to our appointment and this will form a priority unsecured claim against the Group,” the letter stated. Ms Everitt claims she’s owed an outstanding amount of $1000. “They (Hiro Brands) pretty much wiped their hands clean. Now I have to try to get my hard earned money back.” She explained the FEG claim process to be “horrible.” “Not only did it take an hour to get through, it keeps asking odd questions like, ‘Have you had any relationships with the owners?’ this or that.” Caught in a ball of frustration over the
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
whole ordeal, she’s still thankful and is worried about others who have it worse than her. “I’m very lucky to be living with my family, so I don’t have to pay rent but there are so many people I know at work who will be greatly impacted. “An older lady just took out a mortgage at the end of last year. She won’t be able to get the payment.” As the majority will be on the look-out for a new job, administrators will be “urgently” seeking buyers for the Group’s assets. The Groups related entities have also entered administration including Chimera Laboratories, Scental Pacific, The Heat Group, Greenacre Developments and Doward International. Hiro Brands manufactures, distributes, and markets a range of personal care, cosmetic and household products, sold under a range of brands including, Organic Choice, Orange Power, Aware Sensitive, Trix, ulta3, MUD, Billie Goat and Aus Medic Co.
Council rate increases have been capped to reduce pressure on household budgets. Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne announced the rate cap of 2.75 per cent for 2024-25 under the Labor Government’s Fair Go Rates system. “Fair Go Rates mean households have certainty over their council rates and in 2024-25, the increase will be kept to the forecast inflation rate.” The increase will be capped at the forecast Consumer Price Index for the next financial year. The rate cap limits the amount all Victorian councils can increase their total revenue from general rates and municipal charges. The City of Greater Dandenong Council has met the cap rate of 3.50 per cent for 2023-24 and noted the new cap for 2024-25. In a statement, council also made it clear that the rate cap of 2.75 per cent doesn’t mean each ratepayers rates will be increased by the percentage. “The rate cap applies to Council’s total rate revenue - not individual properties. Individual rates bills may increase or decrease by more (or less) than the capped increase, due to changes in the Capital Improved Value of properties,“ mayor Lana Formoso said in the statement. “In recent years, council’s costs have risen significantly more than the rate cap. This poses a challenge for managing council’s budget. “At the same time, council appreciates that local ratepayers are also facing pressures. “We understand that our local businesses are experiencing volatile markets and our home-owner rate payers are facing pressure from interest rate rises and other cost of living increases. “Council is working on a 2024-25 budget that will continue to deliver quality services and projects for this community, while managing a tight budget responsibly and sustainably.“ Ministerial Guidelines have also been released for service rates and charges for the collection of kerbside waste and recycling from properties. Service rates and charges used to fund waste collection and management are not subject to the rate cap. The guidelines detail that services that provide a general benefit to the whole municipality, such as tree planting, graffiti removal and street cleaning, should not be funded by service rates or charges to individual ratepayers. The State Government introduced the Fair Go Rates system in 2016. In the decade before the introduction of the rate cap, council rates increased by an average of 6 per cent per annum. The average rate cap between 201617 and 2023-24 was 2.25 per cent. Councils are able to apply for a higher rate cap if they can demonstrate community support and a critical need for spending on services or projects that require a rate rise above the capped amount. There were no applications for an exemption this financial year, when the cap was set at 3.5 per cent.
Picture: GARY SISSONS dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Skating for a cause Cyber boost By Sahar Foladi A skating enthusiast, Adam Morrow is set to skate for 16 hours passing through Greater Dandenong from Docklands to Phillip Island. The more than 160km skate is set for March 14 from 10pm, as Mr Morrow hopes to make it to Phillip Island by 2pm the next day. “All of the night skating will be on bike paths and around Dandenong I will be on back streets and footpaths. “Nothing I haven’t done before, so I’m confident skating that sort of terrain.” Although it all started because of his love for adventure and skating, this project sets itself apart as Mr Morrow will be raising funds for charities close to him, Love Your Sister and the Heart Lung Transplant Trust Victoria. Besides having a double lung transplant himself, he has also had few friends pass away due to cancer. “A friend of my wife had a double lung transplant which gave her many years of life with family and friends. “Later she battled with cancer (unrelated to the transplant) and passed away.” After he met with Sam Johnson, founder of Love Your Sister charity, and found that he’d unicycled around Australia as a fundraiser, Mr Morrow says he knew it was the right cancer charity “for his crazy skate.” He has already raised more than $1000 with an ultimate goal of raising as much as possible. He is backed by a few skate centres and on his trip to Phillip Island. Mr Morrow’s journey can be followed on his social media pages, on Facebook Epic Inline Maintenance and Instagram epic_inline_ maintenance as he regularly posts his training. To donate, https://www.mycause.com. au/p/317641/adams-epic-skate
Adam Morrow.
Picture: SUPPLIED
Centrally managed internet services and improving schools’ cybersecurity governance will be part of a new suite of upgrades for schools across the state designed to keep students and staff, and their data, safe. The upgrades will monitor school networks and flag suspicious activity by hackers and criminals, while also standardising cybersecurity services across schools as well as doubling internet speeds. The changes follow on from about 15 schools taking part in a pilot program using three new artificial intelligencebased programs which monitor activity within school networks looking for things like ransomware and hacking during the first half of 2023. The final decision on which of the programs from the successful pilot will be implemented is expected early this year, with the new solution working alongside existing technology. The existing technologies have identified and stopped more than 35,700 attempts to access school systems since 2021. The upgrades are included in the State Government’s Securing Connected Learners program, which is shaping technology and digital services across more than 1500 government schools. The upgrades will include centralising access to Microsoft and Google collaboration programs, moving schools onto centrally managed services for internet, systems access and security monitoring, providing schools with a catalogue of assessed education software to minimize the use of unsafe technologie, doubling the internet speed from one megabits per second (Mbps) to two Mbps per student in primary schools and increase it five-fold to five Mbps per student in secondary schools.
Greater Dandenong City Council, Yarraman Ward by-election Request an early postal vote
Voting
To apply for an early postal vote, contact the Election Manager from 12 noon Wednesday 7 February on (03) 9678 1488 and make an application. You must provide a valid reason.
c/- Victorian Electoral Commission
• be eligible to become a councillor should you be elected AND • have completed the mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the Election Manager. To nominate, complete the nomination form and lodge it with the Election Manager together with the $250 nomination fee. Nomination forms can be lodged by appointment during business hours from Thursday 1 February until 12 noon on Tuesday 6 February at:
Melbourne VIC 3000 Alternatively, you can email your request to: redirections@vec.vic.gov.au Please include the address for redirection. Each voter requesting redirection must sign their request. Requests for redirection must be received by Thursday 1 February.
Large print and braille ballot papers
Visit vec.vic.gov.au for more information and to pre-complete your nomination form using the online Candidate Helper. The online Candidate Helper is now available. If you use the online Candidate Helper, print your pre-completed form and make an appointment to lodge it with the Election Manager along with the nomination fee. Call the Election Manager from Wednesday 31 January on (03) 9678 1488 to make a nomination appointment.
Large print or braille ballot papers are available for voters who are blind or have low vision—please register by 5 pm Tuesday 30 January. To register, call (03) 8620 1277 during business hours.
vec.vic.gov.au | 131 832
Robinson St
Hemmings St Carson St
Scott St
Potter St
Yarraman Ward Candidate information session A candidate information session will be hosted online, using Microsoft Teams at 6 pm on Tuesday 30 January.
Ground Floor 237 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong
Level 11, 530 Collins Street
Ra ilw ay
The VEC will publish the link to register for the live stream from Tuesday 24 January on vec.vic.gov.au Candidate Information Kits containing nomination forms and other electoral information will be available online and from the Election Manager.
Nominations close 12 midday Tuesday 6 February State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
@electionsvic
12656555-JB04-24
Greater Dandenong City Council election
• be an Australian citizen and enrolled on the voters’ roll for Greater Dandenong City Council AND
y Hw
Election Manager
s
If you will be away when ballot packs are mailed, or your address has changed since Friday 12 January, you can request for your ballot pack to be redirected by writing to:
Kelvinside Rd
To nominate as a candidate, you must:
ce
If you will be away
How to nominate as a candidate
in Pr
Ballot packs will be mailed to voters enrolled in the Greater Dandenong City Council, Yarraman Ward by-election from Tuesday 20 February 2024. Return your completed ballot material by mail ASAP or handdeliver it to the Election Manager by the close of voting at 6 pm on Friday 8 March.
Bowmor
Vote by post this March
e Rd
Your council, your vote
Authorised by S. Bluemmel, Electoral Commissioner, 530 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria.
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 3
NEWS
Ten charged Ten people have been charged and 22 guns seized by police after an alleged armed robbery at a Mulgrave business in November. Seven were arrested during police raids of homes in Keysborough, Clayton South, Moorabbin, Rowville, Greenvale and Roxburgh Park as well as a storage facility at Mordialloc on Thursday afternoon (18 January). Armed Crime Squad detectives charged a 29-year-old Clayton South man with almost 40 firearms and drugs offences. Others arrested included: A 30-year-old Clayton South man charged with 25 firearms offences A 29-year-old Keysborough man, charged with 30 firearms, drugs and handle stolen goods offences, A 31-year-old Rowville man, charged with 11 firearms, drugs and weapons offences, A 30-year-old Greenvale man, charged with 11 firearms and drug offences, A 28-year-old Moorabbin woman, charged with possess methylamphetamine and possess fireworks. She was bailed to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 13 March, and A 30-year-old Rowville man who was issued with a cannabis caution. The five men were expected to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 19 January. Police also discovered a military mortar shell buried in Mt Waverley parkland. The investigation was sparked by two alleged robbers armed with handguns holding up a licensed premises on Dandenong Road in Mulgrave in the early hours of Friday, 3 November. The two men left the venue with a small quantity of cash and fled in a waiting vehicle, police say. Over the course of the investigation, police charged three other men with drug and gun offences after earlier raids in Oakleigh South, Clayton South, Highett and Beaumaris. The items seized by police included: 22 firearms, Five imitation firearms, Firearm parts, Ammunition, An electronic jammer, Explosives, Drugs of dependence including liquid GHB, LSD, methylamphetamine, cannabis, and prescription drugs, Pepper spray, Knuckle dusters, 3D printed firearm parts, Stolen property including registration plates, and A small quantity of cash. Detective Inspector Mark Hatt, from the Armed Crime Squad, said the arrests were a “clear message to anyone illegally carrying firearms”.
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Protesters marching towards Bruce Mp Julian Hill’s office on Wednesday 10 January.
Protest ‘red tape’ By Sahar Foladi
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The Free Palestine Movement Dandenong Action has criticised Greater Dandenong Council for ‘red tape’ measures just days before the group’s pro-Palestine protest was held. The protest held in Harmony Square on Wednesday 10 January, saw a huge turn-out of 500, as previously reported by Star Journal. The group of young local residents had worked hard to spread the word about the protest, including handing out leaflets in different languages. However, emotions and risks of running the protest were high days before the event, as the group claims they were threatened with a fine of $3,000 by council. The group stated council were aware of the event three to four weeks prior. “Just accessing a permit to have this event has been extremely difficult even after we gave approximately four-weeks notice,” organising member Afaf Al-fawwal said. “It has been a hard road to actually get here and have this demonstration. “I find it completely ironic that they have the Palestinian flag fly for just 10 days, pass a motion for ceasefire yet draw the line with us coming out here to show support. “It can’t be a half-baked support.” As part of the demonstration, the group marched towards Bruce MP Julian Hill’s office from Harmony Square circling back to the starting point. According to the council’s chief executive officer, Jacqui Weatherill, there is “specific criteria” that has to be met with more than 200 attendees at an event. “These criteria are both reasonable and appropriate, aimed at ensuring the safety of our community and providing adequate insurance coverage in the event of any injuries. “For a rally and march anticipating more than 200 attendees, it is reasonable to establish requirements to ensure the event is well-organised and secure,” she said. “Our events team worked closely with the Palestinian event organisers to fulfill these requirements; however, in this particular instance, the organisers did not meet them. “Council looks forward to continuing to support a range of events in Harmony Square and other public spaces.” An emergency meeting a night before the event was held with council representatives and the group, which concluded with a ‘final warning’ from council.
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
“Council encourages the use of Harmony Square for community events, including large and small gatherings, all-year-long,” Ms Weatherill said. “Throughout last year, Harmony Square hosted a total of 46 community events, averaging almost one event per week.” Having a legal background, Eva Lazzaro is an administration volunteer and looks after all legal forms. “Speaking with police and council, it was mentioned we could incur a sizable fine which caused a lot of stress to us. “Generally, I think a group of people that want to organise a protest that’s peaceful and family oriented should be assisted in doing so by council and Victoria Police, because we will always have these events regardless of the permit because it’s very difficult to cancel these types of events.” However, while the group conceded council tried to meet them half-way and officers were “receptive,” they don’t want to be “hitting the same roadblocks every time.” They hope to have a streamlined process in the future to avoid hassles. “The vibrancy of the Free Palestine movement in the Dandenong regions is more important than the administrative setbacks,” Ms Lazzaro said. “We had a great turn-out and it was bigger
than the last time which is great, and we really want to be able to continue this movement in the area. “A lot of people have lived here for a long time and are engaged in the local community.” This is the second event organised by the group in Greater Dandenong. The first event held on Wednesday 13 December saw a minor turnout of approximately 400 people compared to the numbers most recently. Councillor Rhonda Garad also expressed her dissatisfaction with the council and called for a simple procedure for the community to be able to utilise the space. “I find it very problematic and of concern. We really need to sit down and work out what’s happened because people have been very damaged by this process. “These are our young leaders of tomorrow, we shouldn’t be making threats of fines. “At the end of the day it’s public square and this is an issue of interest to a huge number of people.” She was also in attendance on the day along with councillor Jim Memeti and was one of the guest speakers. “It shouldn’t be that hard to hold a public event at a public space. “We will do whatever we can to see how we can smooth over those processes.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
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Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 5
NEWS
The birthday was organised together with Lexington Gardens and Fred’s Picture: SAHAR FOLADI family.384093
Family photo with three of Fred’s children, son-in-law, grandchildren and a great grandchildren. Picture: SUPPLIED
Birthday card from his majesty to Fred. Picture: SUPPLIED
Fred’s voyage to 100 By Sahar Foladi As previously covered by Star Journal, Frederick Menzies officially celebrated his centenary on Wednesday 17 January with friends and family by his side. His daughter and grandchildren made the lengthy journey from London to celebrate together. Lexington Gardens Aged Care manager, Erroll Bearsley said these celebrations are very rare. “Coming from a Royal Navy background, Fred hasn’t forgotten how to be in charge, that’s for sure. “He still remains firmly in charge of the way he lives his life,“ he said. “It’s wonderful that people can come into residential aged care and still live to see their
Fred’s Honours and Awards in the Navy. Picture: SUPPLIED
centenary which is something we should celebrate to the full. “You have to keep in mind that there’s approximately 3000 people turning 100 this year in Australia. It doesn’t happen often and it’s fabulous when it does when the family comes together and celebrate.” A light lunch with desserts, slideshow-down the memory lane and Mr Menzies’ memorable items from his time at the navy were all on display for everyone to browse. “People like Fred bring wealth of experience and culture into a place like this. We share what everyone has been through and experiences that some of us can only imagine. “Prior to covid there’s been, world wars, Ebola, SARs, depression, living through all these and still be able to celebrate with his family is fantastic,“ Mr Bearsley said.
A slideshow displayed old and current family Picture: SAHAR FOLADI photos. 384093
Fred in full conversation with his granddaughter Darcy by his side. 384093
Fred’s loved ones gathered to celebrate his Picture: SAHAR FOLADI centenary. 384093
Memories from the Navy on display. 384093 Picture: SAHAR FOLADI
Picture: SAHAR FOLADI
An invitation to attend the King’s coronation. Picture: SAHAR FOLADI
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BUSINESS PROFILE
Coal Miner’s Daughter coming to town “Loretta Lynn paved the way for women like me in country music, to take centre stage“ - Amber Joy Poulton, star of Coal Miner’s Daughter. In floor length gowns adorned with tassels and rhinestones, with hair as close to country music heaven as possible, where country music started and still should be, in the theatre, just like the Grand Ole Opry and it’s coming to town! In February 2024, Amber Joy Poulton (as Loretta Lynn), Lizzie Moore (as Patsy Cline) and The Preacher Denis Surmon (as Conway Twitty and Willie Nelson) along with kickin’ band The Holy Men, will sing the story of a champion of women’s rights, a mother of six and a lifetime of chart topping hits to the country music lovers all over Australia. 6 STAR JOURNAL
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This inspiring theatre show was a smash hit at the 2023 Tamworth Country Music Festival and played to packed theatres in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane throughout 2022/2023, as well as regional centres. Coal Miner’s Daughter celebrates the incredible life of the late great Loretta Lynn, from her early days in the hills of Kentucky to her tempestuous marriage, tragic losses and enduring bonds with such luminaries as Patsy Cline, Conway Twitty, Tammy Wynette, Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, across a stellar career, till her final send off to country music heaven in October 2022. On their latest tour, Amber Joy Poulton and the cast of Coal Miner’s Daughter played to more than 10,000 people across Australia and in an eerie twist of fate, were performing opening night at the very moment of Loretta’s sad
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
passing in Tennessee. Audiences will be captivated by the masterful storytelling, performances and catalogue of hits, including ’Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ With Lovin’ On Your Mind’, ’I Fall To Pieces’, ’You Ain’t Woman Enough To Take My Man’, ’Crazy’, ’Silver Threads & Golden Needles’, ’Walkin’ After Midnight’, ’You’re Lookin’ At Country’, ’One’s On The Way’, ’Stand By Your Man’, ’After The Fire Is Gone’ and more. Tour dates and locations: Dandenong, Drum Theatre - Friday 2 February, 2024. Geelong Arts Centre, The Playhouse Theatre - Saturday 3 February, 2024. Tickets and details at: www.coalminersdaughter.com.au
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Coal Miner’s Daughter - A musical tribute to Loretta Lynn and Friends through mega-hits and stories. Lizzie Moore (Patsy Cline), Amber Joy Poulton (Loretta Lynn) and Denis Surmon (Conway Twitty). dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Proud $10k donation By Emma Xerri Hoping to make the work of the Springvale Benevolent Society a little easier during the holidays, the Spring Vale Lodge have provided the charity with a recent generous donation of $10,000 with the help of the Freemasons Foundation. The Lodge has worked with the Springvale Benevolent Society for four years as the organisation’s chosen charity, hosting monthly events with all proceeds going making up allimportant funds that enable the Springvale Benevolent Society to provide aid to more than 1000 families each year. On Monday 18 December, Spring Vale Lodge members had the honour of presenting this donation to the Society. “I first came across the Springvale Benevolent Society about four years ago when I was looking for a charity for our lodge to support. “Large, national charities get funding from a lot of places, so we wanted to make sure we supported someone local and in need of our support. When I heard about the work they were doing I knew it was a great cause to support. “Most of our fundraising is achieved through raffles, and by members contributing to our various events during the year. “But we hope to start providing more hands-on support in the new year. We want them to be able to call on us, and we’ll have our members out and about delivering parcels on their behalf, especially around busy times like Christmas.
From L-R: Joe Rechichi, WBro. Giorgio Migliaccio JGD, Teresa Rechichi, RWBro. Barry Dyce SGW, Worshipful Master of the Spring Vale Lodge Bro. Andrew Gleeson. “We appreciate the support from the Freemasons Foundation. Without them we wouldn’t have been able to give the whole
$10,000. “It’s a shame it’s not more and it’s a shame they have to spend so much money to provide
the help they do. But we try to help where we can and we’ll just continue to support them as much as possible.”
FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING
‘Thunderstruck’ by ACDC... The interim Australian Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) is one of the biggest advances in Australia’s public health infrastructure in decades and holds the potential to improve millions of lives, Australia’s peak body for public health said. The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) said that potential can be realised if the new centre, which has the support of numerous health and medical organisations and professional bodies, is properly funded and staffed. “As we start 2024 we enthusiastically welcome the arrival of the interim ACDC and are keen to see the details this year on how it will work in practice with the states and territories,” PHAA CEO, Adj Prof Terry Slevin said. The legislation to establish the ACDC needs to be passed through Parliament in 2024, the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) said. “We’re particularly interested in seeing that the centre’s core structure matches what was in Labor’s 2022 election commitment that it leads the federal response to future infectious disease
outbreaks and works to prevent non-communicable (chronic) as well as communicable (infectious) diseases,” Prof Slevin said. “Indeed as the ALP’s election promise also stated, all Australians will benefit from improved pandemic preparedness and response, as well as a renewed focus on preventing chronic disease. “As the ABS’ National Health Survey 2022 released last month has shown, one in two Australians live with at least one chronic illness, and that’s a crisis we cannot ignore. “But the good news is that we already know what we need to do to tackle these challenges. We’ve got the excellent National Preventive Health Strategy 2021-2030, and if we sew that into the fabric of the new, properly funded ACDC, we can ensure that the health and wellbeing of millions of people is improved. “Spending money on prevention is a far better use of taxpayers’ money than costly treatments and hospitalisation, especially during this cost-of-living crisis.”
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Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 7
NEWS
Fines taking a toll on drivers By Matthew Sims Dandenong drivers received some of the highest number of toll fines across the state during the last 12 months, according to freedom of information (FOI) data obtained by the Peninsula Community Legal Centre. According to the PCLC, about 40 per cent of the state’s road tolls were issued to South East residents, with Casey-based drivers receiving the most with 35,246 fines, followed by Frankston with 16,714, Dandenong with 15,434, Mornington Peninsula with 12,754 and Cardinia with 9046. PCLC chief executive Jackie Galloway said the centre was concerned about the impact the fines would continue to have on vulnerable people who are already struggling due to the ongoing cost of living and housing crisis. “The areas in our catchment where the highest numbers of fines were issued last year also have some of the most disadvantaged postcodes in the state,“ she said. “This means our fines team is seeing an increase in the number of people who are already struggling to put food on the table and pay their rent who simply don’t have sufficient funds to pay their fines, even though they want to do the right thing.“ In the year to July 2023, more than twothirds of the clients who sought help via PCLC’s fines clinic were experiencing financial disadvantage, while about 50 per cent had a disability and/or mental health issues. According to PCLC, their clients’ average fine debt was $13,000, while some clients had as much as $70,000 worth of fine debt. According to Fines Victoria’s data, the value of toll infringements at the enforcement stage in PCLC’s catchment area in the South East for the 2022/23 financial year was close to $30 million. Ms Galloway said the government needed to look at ways to better support people who were unable to pay off their fines in a timely manner. “We are particularly concerned about the fact that the fines system is a common entry point into the criminal justice system for vulnerable people who are not trying to avoid their fines, but who simply do not have the means to pay,“ she said. “There is an urgent need for the government to help these people pay off their fines in other ways, rather than crippling them with life-long debt and the threat of criminal sanctions.“ Fines Victoria has operated the Work and
Development Permit (WDP) scheme since 2017, which aims to help vulnerable people pay off their fines. The scheme has allowed people to work off their fine debt via a number of therapeutic programs, including financial counselling, educational and vocational courses, treatment by a health practitioner, volunteering, and drug and alcohol counselling. PCLC has been supporting the scheme since 2019 with a special project using funding from the Victorian Legal Services Board to make the scheme more accessible. However, Ms Galloway said they were concerned the scheme was failing to adequately support vulnerable people in the metro South East region. “In our view, the WDP scheme is at risk of stalling just at the time when it is needed most,“ she said. “A comparison with the system in NSW, which the Victorian system was modelled on, starkly illustrates the problems. “In the 2021/2022 financial year in NSW there were 29,508 WDPs issued to work off fines to the value of $44,200,000, while in the same period in Victoria, only 1504 WDPs were completed to work off $3,504,758 worth of debt.“ To be eligible for a WDP, one must have, or be experiencing a mental or intellectual disability, disorder or illness; an addiction to drugs, alcohol or a volatile substance; homelessness; family violence; or acute financial hardship. The WDP scheme allows a person’s sponsor to choose the treatment and/or activities which would be best suited to them and keep records of their participation. Ms Galloway with the number of accredited sponsors falling severely short of demand, the scheme could not begin to meet the needs of those seeking support. “The fines enforcement system is ineffective and disproportionately burdensome for vulnerable members of the community who find it impossible to pay their fines,“ she said. “It is also very costly for government. “We are calling on the Victorian government to invest more resources into the WDP scheme to provide better access for vulnerable Victorians to reduce their fines debt and remove them from the enforcement system, while still maintaining the deterrence and reduction of reoffending.“ For more information, about how to access the WDP scheme through the PCLC fines team, phone 9783 3600.
Peninsula Community Legal Centre chief executive Jackie Galloway.
Picture: SUPPLIED
Driven to distraction? Advertising signs causing concern By Cam Lucadou-Wells Endeavour Hills resident Eliezer Francois believed a cluster of advertising signs on the corner of Power and Heatherton roads was an “eyesore” that obstructed the view of motorists. Most of the tall, bright signs were promoting upcoming community events, while emblazoned with the names of local real estates who sponsor the hoardings. But the former Mauritian councillor, MP and Government Minister feared the signs could raise a perceived conflict for the council, whose events were among the sponsored boards. “The council should not be seen to “show any special favour towards land developers, estate agents, private social clubs or organisers of school functions”, Mr Francois argues. “Many years ago, I was told that Casey signage policy would be reviewed. ‘For God’s sake, let it be done as soon as possible. First to protect the environment, to remove the eyesore and to avoid distractions to motorists.” Casey Council connected communities manager Callum Pattie said the council has a “community event signage” for placing signs in approved locations, including that corner of Endeavour Hills. “The approved locations were originally assessed and chosen by a member of Council’s Transport Planning and Operations De8 STAR JOURNAL
| Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
Eliezer Francois takes aim at the bright, tall advertising signs which were on the corner of Power and Heatherton roads, Endeavour Hills. 380832 partment to ensure they would not cause any safety issues for motorists.” A limit of four signs, each no larger than 5 square metres, are allowed at the site. According to Casey Council, any signs without a permit are removed.
Sponsorship must take up no more than 10 per cent of the designs - which are pre-approved by the council. “It is common to acknowledge sponsors of Council run events on signage or other promotional material,” Mr Pattie said.
“Council has a robust internal process in place to respond to conflicts of interest, including how this is managed. “These are assessed and managed (on) a case-by-case basis.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Ali’s a champion
Council CEO suffers tragic loss
By Sahar Foladi Born in Afghanistan, Ali Akber Rezaie has already worked his way up to earn a National Championships medal after just three years in Australia. The Hampton Park man migrated in 2019 to join his parents and worked odd jobs wherever available. He decided to take up studies in autobody repair at TAFE and excelled. “Coming to Australia, everything was new – new culture, new language, and new people. It was a complex transition for me. “It can be hard to settle, to find a job or to understand the systems and TAFE helped with that,” he said. “As soon as I started an apprenticeship, I knew this was for me, this is what I was looking for.” He began working at an automotive repair company that sponsored him to study his Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology at TAFE. He went on to win a bronze award in autobody repair at World Skills Australia’s 2023 National Championships and credits his positive experience at Tafe. “Many of the practical skills we learn in class are immediately applied to the job, but the benefit of TAFE is how we also learn the theory that explains how to do it best. “When I entered the WorldSkills Australia competition, my trainer was one of my teachers. “He has been a mentor and has guided me through my career. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him,” he said. “I am grateful for TAFE in opening my life to meeting such passionate people who have helped me to build my career and life in Australia.” The opportunity has further inspired Mr
Ali Akber Rezaie won the Bronze award in autobody repair at WorldSkills Australia’s National Championship. Picture: SUPPLIED Rezaie with an ultimate goal to advance and hone his skills in automotive body repair. He recommends other new arrivals to strive for qualifications and skills that will help them land a job to avoid repeated rejections. “Finding a job is important to people new to Australia, and it can get frustrating when faced with repeated rejection, or if you don’t
know where to start. “Studying a tuition free TAFE course is a fantastic way to do so without additional financial stress. “There are many services out there ready to help people new to Australia find their feet – all you have to do is have the courage to ask for help and be open to new opportunities!”
Greater Dandenong Council chief executive Jacqui Weatherill has taken leave after the tragic, sudden death of her husband. Renowned sports administrator Simon Weatherill, 67, died while competing in the Portsea Swim Classic on Saturday 20 January. Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso stated that the council was “shocked by this sad news”. “Sadly, Council can confirm reports of the tragic passing of Simon Weatherill, beloved husband of our CEO, Jacqui Weatherill. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Ms Weatherill and her family at this incredibly difficult time.” Community strengthening executive director Peta Gillies will act as the council’s chief executive while Ms Weatherill is on leave, Cr Formoso stated. Mr Weatherill, a former CEO of Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and State Sport Centres Trust, has been described as a “passionate” and “regular bayside” swimmer and competitor. “He continued to mentor and coach within sports industry and broader sectors,” a family statement to the Herald Sun said. “Swimming was very much a passion throughout his professional and personal life.”
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livelocalshoplocal Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 9
NEWS
Food, fibre exports boom
‘Dangerous’ design By Cam Lucadou-Wells A redesign of the controversial level-crossing project in Progress Street, Dandenong South has been dismissed as still “damn dangerous” by heavy-transport businesses. The State Government stated on 18 December that it would widen Fowler Road to “safely” cater for over-dimensional B-double trucks – in response to industry concerns. Surrounding businesses including Australia Post have steadfastly opposed the project, which will close Progress Street to traffic. Vehicles will be diverted onto a new road bridge on Fowler Road and a new signalised intersection at South Gippsland Highway. According to the Government, traffic assessments show the new bridge and Fowler Road upgrades will safely accommodate oversized trucks. But Andrew Hamer, managing director of nearby business Pakaflex, said the twisting Fowler Road filled with heavy-goods driveways was not “suitable” for connecting more than 6000 vehicles a day. He called for the release of the Government’s “actual plans” including traffic assessments. “With the huge traffic flow, Fowler Road is effectively being assigned a new purpose as a ‘trunk connector’ and is in fact not suitable for that task. “Asking A (road-train)/B & Super-B doubles to transit 40-odd active heavy goods driveways to service a major distribution hub area (including Australia Post’s biggest distribution centre) is simply silly. “This solution is damn dangerous and connects us to the most congested road in Dandenong (South Gippsland Highway).” Colin Smith of JDN Monocrane said he’d been advised his truck fleet should use escort vehicles to navigate the road, while also to cross South Gippsland Highway’s median strip
An illustration of the redesigned Fowler Road bridge at Progress Street, Dandenong South. Picture: LEVEL CROSSING REMOVAL PROJECT on the “wrong side of the lights“. Over-dimensional vehicles were not going to get around the corner at the Fowler RoadProgress Street bridge, he said. “There will be head-on collisions on the bridge and all the way up Fowler Road.“ According to official stats, there had so far been no crashes at the so-called “dangerous“ boom gates, Smith said. “Everyone in this area would prefer a level crossing. We’d rather they did nothing - or wait until there’s money to do it properly with a railunder or road-over solution.“ The Level Crossing Removal Project stated Fowler Road would be widened from eight metres to 10 by creating “new indented on-street parking” on the north side of the road, A pedestrian or cycling path is not included in the design but “these works do not preclude one from being built in the future”. “Following engagement with the commu-
nity and business owners, Fowler Road will be widened and upgraded, making it safer and more accessible for all road users,” an LCRP spokesperson said. “We are closing the Progress Street level crossing to ease congestion and soon make the Pakenham Line boom gate-free – changing the way people travel for the better.“ Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson said: “We will continue to engage with local businesses and the community as the project progresses and we thank people for their patience as we get on with the work.” Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the Fowler Road widening was an “important upgrade for the precinct and will improve safety and efficiency for road users”. “We are getting on with removing dangerous level crossings, which will ease congestion and make Dandenong South’s roads safer.” Major works were scheduled for early 2024, with the level crossing closed by 2025.
LOOKING BACK
Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society
turned out yesterday for the exactment of Springvale’s Lunar New Year Festival. The extravaganza, organised by the Springvale Asia Business Association, celebrated the Year of the Monkey. Performances went to 9pm and proceeds will help disabled youth. People from all cultures joined to help our strong and passionate Asian community celebrate in style. In the thick of the action the Springvale Asian business Association’s Visa Nathan said “This is shaping up bigger than last year and it’s a wonderful environment to be part of”.
100 years ago 17 January 1924 Nothing Doing! The Dandenong Police Court presented an unusually calm and peaceful appearance on Monday morning last. The Bench was occupied by six Justices, ready to bring their justice, and wisdom to bear on any charge from the common “drunk” to the cold-blooded murderer, but neither of these were forthcoming, and our energetic inspector (Mr Geo Clarks) could not even fill the breach with a “stray cow” case. As a matter of fact, there was not a case listed and the court was formally opened and closed again within a few minutes.
5 years ago
50 years ago 22 January 1974 Pickers Wanted Labor is urgently required for seasonal harvest work in the Murray Valley area of Victoria. About 5000 pickers are required for the grape harvest which begins in Sunraysia in February. Several thousand pickers are also required to harvest pears and peaches in the Shepparton and Cobram districts, tobacco at Myrtleford and tomatoes at Shepparton and Swan Hill. Within Victoria, free return travel will be available to all pickers travelling to Mil10 STAR JOURNAL
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A new report shows Victoria is leading the nation for international food and fibre sales. Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas visited Remedy Drinks in Dandenong South to release the 2022-23 Food and Fibre Export Performance Report, which shows Victoria is Australia’s largest food and fibre exporter by value – accounting for 24 per cent of the national total. In another strong year for Victorian farmers and food manufacturers, the state achieved an increase of 7 per cent in export value, taking the total to a record $19.6 billion. That is near the State Government’s target of reaching $20 billion a year in food and fibre international sales by 2030. Grain was the largest export in 202223, increasing by 26 per cent to reach $5.6 billion in value, while meat was the second largest at sector $4.5 billion. Remedy Drinks continued to be an outstanding performer, with the kombucha brand contributing to a 12 per cent increase in Victorian beverage exports. Remedy grew its exports by 40 per cent in 2022-23, increasing its workforce by 30 people. Food and fibre exports increased in the majority of Victoria’s key markets in 2022-23, led by China, Japan and the US, and inroads continued to be made in other strategic markets including Singapore, South Korea and Indonesia. The results highlight the global standing of Victoria’s high-quality, safe and sustainable produce and the ability of our farmers and food manufacturers to innovate and seize new market opportunities. Food and fibre sales represent more than one-third of Victoria’s overall exports. Victoria’s network of 23 international Trade and Investment Offices and trade mission program help local exporters gain access and contacts in key markets. To read the report, go to global.vic. gov.au/victorias-export-performance
Artist Brett Ashby with his mural in Boyd Lane, Dandenong in 2019. 189041
dura, Robinvale or Nyah West. Those travelling by car may expect to receive a contribution towards petrol costs. Each of the grants will be given after three weeks satisfactory work.
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
Picture: ROB CAREW
20 years ago 19 January 2004 Springvale over the moon In perfect weather close to 100,000 people
21 January 2019 Rich tribute to historic lane Artist Brett Ashby has brightened a grey Dandenong laneway as part of the transformed temporary public art program. Boyd Lane’s walls were brought to life with deftly painted keywords and coloured blocks on the walls, doorways and pavement. It enlivens a thoroughfare for more than 1000 pedestrians a day between Palm Plaza and Lonsdale Street. He took inspiration from the areas’ rich commercial history, including the Boyd familyowned Gippsland Hardware Company next to the lane. The mural includes the ‘Golden Mile’s slogan, harking back to Lonsdale street’s boom days. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Hodge creates huge buzz By Jonty Ralphsmith Brad Hodge’s cameo appearance for Berwick Springs in the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) T20 competition brought plenty of buzz and a full house despite the result going against his team. The former Australian test cricketer and white ball master blaster was dismissed for 19, but showed shoots of class while batting and picked up 2/18 with the ball. Batting at three with the Titans chasing 118, Hodge was at the crease in the first over after Jackson Marie was dismissed for a duck. He got off the mark first ball with a forward push through forward square leg; Triyan De Silva the first Heinz Southern Districts bowler tasked with stopping him. Hodge’s 46 games of international experience came to the fore fifth ball when he leant into a drive over extra cover which cleared the cones in front of the packed pavilion at Berwick Springs Recreation Reserve. Four balls later he deposited offie Craig Hookey on to the marquee that shaded his teammates straight down the ground as he looked set to get his team across the line. In between those two boundaries were a series of singles as he respected the good balls. To the crowd’s disappointment he was eventually undone for 19 off 17 just prior to the midway point of the innings, trying to late cut leggie Jacob Hinds. Berwick Springs still looked like getting home with Radomir Badzoka teeing off and Riley Hillman coming in down the order and lining up the quicks. Ultimately, late striking from Jackson Philpin and Jett Kearney with the bat, and Philpin’s death bowling proved the difference as the Titans collapsed to be dismissed for 95. Hodge: local clubs play key role Brad Hodge commended the Titans while pointing to the satisfaction of giving back to the community as he reflected on his stint. Initially slated to play last week before rain postponed the fixture, Hodge was keen to ensure his Channel 7 commentary commitments still aligned to allow him to make an appearance. A young cricket club securing the services of a cricketer with such an esteemed reputation has helped put them on the map, with Hodge appreciative of the role he has been able to play in that. “There was a lot of support not only from the local team but the opposition as well, so I’m just really proud that I can still give back to the local community,” Hodge said. “I don’t get a huge amount of opportunity now, my daughter plays cricket so I watch her a lot. “To come back to a local club and see how much it means to everyone involved was quite important, you’ve got to remember where the fruits of your labour started - with a local cricket club.” Captain Braydon Hillman lost the toss with HSD electing to bat, so Hodge’s first involvement came with the ball, controlling the middle overs with handy off-spin. The 49-year-old has bowled in 86 of his topflight T20 games with an impressive economy rate of 7.80 and took 2/18 with the ball on Tuesday. “The skipper asked me ‘are you keen for a bowl’ and I said ‘I’ve got a pretty good record in T20 cricket, I’ve got a good economy rate at the top level so I’m pretty sure it can be done here and it’s fun,” Hodge said. “We’re all sportspeople, we want to get in there and contribute and have some fun batting and bowling.” While livid that he was unable to guide his team to victory and see them through to the semi finals, Hodge held on to the fact that he hit a few out of the middle. “I just wanted to hit a six to be honest,” Hodge said. “All the crowd expects you to perform so you come here a little bit anxious because the expectation is to do well so I just wanted to hit a six and once you do that people will go ‘he’s still a good player. “Job done there, but I would have liked to dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Pictures: RENAE WALKER
Berwick Springs pose for a photo before the game. 383956
Radomir Badzoka was down the other end when Hodge arrived and shared several overs at the crease with the former Australian cricketer. have got a 50-odd - it’s just the competitive nature in me.” Hodge was giving of his time post game, enjoying conversations with club people and posing for photos with juniors. Hillman: Thrill for club After working so hard to make a marquee signing to top off a season that has been a big step forward for the club, Berwick Springs captain Braydon Hilman was pleased with what the T20 symbolised, despite the result. Hodge was a statement signing and brought hundreds of spectators, renewing interest among some and instigating intrigue among others. “It’s huge,” Hillman said. “I’ve never seen this many people at our club all at once for a cricket match - there’s guys I haven’t seen for 10 years who have come down which is awesome to see.” Following Tuesday’s T20, Hillman said he enjoyed the experience of having Hodge to bounce ideas off while on the field despite the result not going their way. “He was good, he helped with tactics especially with the spinners closing gaps, moving guys to one side, bowling one side of the wicket and that sort of thing,” Hillman said. “He talked about whether we should go more pace on and he said to stick with the spinners. “He was really good speaking about the wind and that sort of thing.” Badzoka: “Surreal” batting with Hodge Experienced swashbuckling Titan Radomir Badzoka was the batter who got to stand at the other end throughout Hodge’s entire innings and reflects fondly on the experience. While Hodge got a couple away, Badzoka
Brad Hodge setting a field.
found the boundaries on multiple occasions throughout the partnership to give Hodge the best chance of settling and make a big score. While it didn’t materialise, it did little to dampen the spirit at the ground, Badzoka loving the experience of being in the middle with Hodge in front of a big crowd. “It was pretty quiet to be honest,” Badzoka said of their time at the crease. “I gave a few pointers in terms of what the ball was doing and that kind of stuff but it was quite surreal watching him come out to bat - I didn’t know what to say when he came out! “It was great fun, seeing him hit the straight drives was amazing. “Everyone’s been quite excited - there’s never been a crowd this big.” Hinds: “My best dismissal” While Hodge was the marquee player on everyone’s lips at Berwick Springs Recreation Reserve, HSD was excited to see Richmond second XI cricketer Jacob Hinds. While he missed out at the top of the order with the bat, he played a crucial role stymying Berwick Springs’ momentum through the middle overs with his legspin, turning the game when he dismissed Hodge. “I think so,” he said, when asked if it was the best wicket of his career. “It’s hard to top Brad Hodge. “He walks out with his Rajasthan Royals helmet which shows the calibre of player he is so to dismiss him is pretty special.” Hinds has bowled to top-flight cricketers including emerging South Australian Jake Fraser-McGurk in the nets but it didn’t equip him for the thrill of bowling to such a player in a match situation. “It was okay coming out of the hand, it
wasn’t exactly where I wanted it,” he said of the dismissal ball. “I wanted it a bit fuller bit I’ll take it - it looks alright when you’ve got Brad Hodge caught behind!” Other results - DDCA T20 - Quarter Finals While Hodge was the drawcard of the DDCA T20 competition, there were three other matches on Tuesday night. St Mary’s caused a stunning boilover against reigning T20 champions Berwick in a positive sign for a club that has been increasingly competitive, but so far unable to put a win on the board this season in Turf 1. Led by an unbeaten 89 off 47 to Saveen Nanayakkara, St Mary’s’ aggressive batting lineup fired to chase down the Bears’ 3/153 in 14 overs. Nanayakkara, who came so close to bowling his side to victory against Buckley Ridges on Saturday, only to go down in heartbreaking circumstances, shook-off the disappointment in an eye-catching performance. Skipper Susantha Pradeep played an excellent supporting role to get his team off to a flyer with 29 off 12 after leading the way with 1/26 opening the bowling. Brett Forsyth eased Springvale South to victory against Narre South with 70 off 58 in a chase of 115 after offie Jarryd Straker continued his wicket-taking ways with 3/16 off 4 to lead the bowling effort. North Dandenong was a class above Fountain Gate at Lois Twohig, using the short square boundaries to its advantage in posting 193. The Gators were in a reasonable position at 1/60 but then fell away quickly as the scoreboard pinch set in. Fixtures for the next round of action are yet to be announced, at time of publication.
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 11
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Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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The amendment proposes to amend Clause 72.04 of the Greater Dandenong Planning Scheme by inserting a new schedule to reflect the change proposed to the incorporated document for the site. The amendment will make the following changes to the Harvey Norman/Ikea Development, 917 Princes Highway, Springvale, August 2009 incorporated document: Amend Clause 6 to include: (c) a shop must not include a Supermarket that exceeds 500 sqm in floor area, and Delete Clause 7. You may inspect the amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, at the Greater Dandenong City Council website at www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au; during office hours at the offices of the planning authority, Greater Dandenong City Council, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; at the Department of Transport and Planning website www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.
The closing date for submissions is Tuesday 5 March 2024. A submission must be sent by email to council@cgd.vic.gov.au or by post to Strategic Planning Amendment C244gdan, Greater Dandenong City Council, PO Box 200, Dandenong VIC 3175.
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Any person may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make. Name and contact details of submitters are required for the planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.
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Details of the amendment: Greater Dandenong City Council has prepared Amendment C244gdan to the Greater Dandenong Planning Scheme. The land affected by the amendment is the Springvale Homemaker Centre (SHC) at 917 Princes Highway, Springvale.
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Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
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The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
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Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 13
SPORT
When ball beats the bat... By Marcus Uhe Saturday proved to be a bowling day across the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 1 competition with a total of 45 wickets falling in just three games of cricket. At St Mary’s, 25 fell alone with Narre South five wickets away from locking away an outright win, after an extraordinary day’s play. After calling correctly and sending the home side into bat, Kyle Hardy’s side quickly found themselves strapping their pads on for their chance with the stick, having ran-through the Saints’ batting lineup for just 37 runs. It’s the lowest total any side has made in the Turf 1 competition this season and the sixth time St Mary’s has lost all 10 wickets for 100 runs or less. Their batting woes continue to hold them back after a promising two weeks post-Christmas. Each of the top four was removed without adding to the score in an innings that lasted just 18.1 overs. When Susantha Pradeep became Callan Tout’s third victim the score read 5/11 in the seventh over, the wheels well and truly removed on a vehicle crashing to an embarrassing scoreline. The hero of Tuesday night’s T20, Saveen Nanayakkara, was the first to go in the opening over, and the Saints simply never recovered. Raveen Nanayakkara’s 12 was the only score in double figures for the likely relegationbound St Mary’s, the wickets shared between the bowling group of Tout (3/13), Alex Cruickshank (2/11), Ruween Wijesinghe (3/11) and Jawed Hussaini (1/2). Having extracted maximum value out of the surface with the ball, the Lions would have been wary about their upcoming innings. And while nearly tripling the Saints’ total, they too battled on the surface, posting just 106. Vineth Jayasuriya matched St Mary’s all on his own, with 37 at the top of the order, but none of his teammates could add scores of significance to press-home their advantage after a dominant opening session with the ball. Scores of 17 from Hardy and Jeevan Mendis were as good as it got for the Lions as Pradeep led his side’s fightback into the contest. The captain-coach took 4/28 from his 12 overs with the key middle-order wickets of Callum Nicholls, Harsha de Silva and Jeevan Mendis for just 28 combined runs. Dimuth Umagiliyage continued his excellent season with the ball for St Mary’s, keeping his name in the upper echelon of the wickettaker’s list with 3/33 from his 16 overs. With a lead of 69 after the first innings, the game was very much in the balance when
Lauchlan Gregson took 5/56 for Hallam Kalora Park against Buckley Ridges. 384315 Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC Saveen Nanayyakara and Wendyl Pires walked out to open the batting for the second time in the day. By the time stumps was called, however, the game seemed to be the Lions’ for the taking. The openers both secured pairs with their second ducks of the day, as did number four Safaras Moahomad. St Mary’s was 3/2 after 17 deliveries, Tout and Cruickshank rising to the challenge once again with a blistering opening display. Chameera Fernando offered the strongest opposition, digging in for a gritty seven off 63 balls, to stave-off the humiliation of an outright victory completed in a single day. St Mary’s will resume the second day at 5/48, a further 21 runs away from making the visitors bat again. At Hallam, 5/56 to Lauchlan Gregson helped keep the Hawks’ finals chances alive, leaving his side in a winnable position against Buckley Ridges after the first day.
Gregson’s handful of wickets helped keep Buckley Ridges to just 190 on a slow batting day at Hallam Recreation Reserve, after Buckley skipper Jayson Hobbs bucked the trend of all other Turf 1 captains on Saturday and opted to bat. Buckley Ridges found scoring difficult at the top of the order, kept to under two runs per over for much of the first half of the batting innings. Hobbs and his opening partner Jake Cronin struck at 4.5 (1 off 22) and 20 (18 off 86) respectively in the face of a Hawks attack playing for their season. Only Roshane Silva raised his bat for a halfcentury for the visitors, hitting a patient 62 off 166 deliveries to keep the bowling attack at bay. He eventually became one of Gregson’s five victims, joining Cronin and last week’s hero Michael Davies as having fallen to the rightarm quick.
Davies’ 36 was the second-best score for the visitors, who will need to bowl at their best next week. In a promising sign for the Hawks, Jordan Hammond took only one wicket, as his fellow bowlers stepped-up to shoulder some responsibility. Spinner Lee Brown took 2/31, Charith Keerthisinghe and William Whyte each taking one each. Yet another fighting half-century from Beaconsfield’s Mark Cooper has given his Tigers a glimmer of hope against Berwick, but his Tigers are up against it yet again after the first day of play at Berwick. Play was delayed by nearly 90 minutes due to concerns over the safety of the playing surface, with the extra time in the sun before play allowing for the absorption of moisture. Sent in by Jarrod Goodes, Cooper was up for the challenge, welcoming the heat of the contest with typical determination and resolve. Anything on a straight line to the left-hander was punished with whips off his pads, while width outside the off stump was attacked, a handful of boundaries in the early overs belying concerns over the pitch, despite Berwick deploying a fielder under the lid at short leg. Cooper lost his opening partner in Tyler Clark and number three Yohan Arumadura in the space of one Corey Bevan over, the Tigers slipping from 0/34 to 2/34 in the blink of an eye. Ashan Madhushanka joined Cooper to get the Tigers through to the tea-break, part of a 58-run partnership before Cooper’s innings came to an end on 62, the first of Mitch Shirt’s four victims. Shirt made the Beaconsfield middle order his own, taking the wickets of Madhushanka (33), Kevin Seth (eight) and Jesse Busacca (zero) in a lethal spell of 4/16. Wicketkeeper Michael Dunstan offered an important 33 late in the card as the Tigers reached 188, bowled in the 68th and final available over of the innings, due to the late start to play. Berwick will have 68 overs to chase 189 next week. Play at Springvale South’s clash with North Dandenong was paused after just eight deliveries due to concerns over the playing surface at Alex Nelson Reserve. The second ball of Sushant Gupta’s opening over for the Maroons to Ryan Quirk, on a decent length around the left-hander’s off stump, removed a significant divot in the pitch, leading to a discussion between umpires Rory Ludowyk and Peter Cramphorn. Players from both sides then left the field of play, not returning for the remainder of the afternoon.
Painful finish for Panthers in pivotal clash with Students By Marcus Uhe One wicket stood between Dandenong and an important win in Victorian Premier Cricket on Saturday against Melbourne University that would have given their chances of qualifying for finals action in 2023/24 a significant boost. Making the trip to Carlton to play the Students, the Panthers were unable to defend 9/184 in a One Day contest, the winning runs conceded in the 48th over of the contest. Dandenong had their hosts on the ropes; a fightback after an excellent second-wicket partnership from Melbourne University ensured that the contest was in the balance with the overs ticking away in the fading lateevening sun. From 1/91 in the 21st over, Dandenong took the next eight wickets for just 66 runs. Spinner Vishwa Ramkumar initiated the collapse with the wicket of Andrej Yaksender, breaking an important 89-run stand, before wickets began to fall with regularity. Numbers four to seven each fell for single figures, one each to Ramkumar and Noah Hurley and two run-outs encapsulating the drama unfolding at Melbourne University. By the 39th over the hosts were reeling at 9/157 having lost three wickets in three consecutive overs and still 28 runs shy of the tar14 STAR JOURNAL
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Ben Allison top scored for Dandenong against Melbourne University with 37. 383174 Picture: ROB CAREW get with only a single wicket remaining. The final wicket proved elusive, however, as the last pair of Jeremy Peacock and Mark Stafford clung-on for dear life. Their final-wicket stand of 28 came pri-
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
marily in singles, with a handful of boundaries sprinkled into the nine-over stay. With the scores tied at 9/184 at the beginning of the 48th over, a sharp return catch opportunity to Noah Hurley was dropped in his
follow-through. Stafford drove the ball back at Hurley, who fumbled the catching opportunity after snatching at the ball in its trajectory. A pitched-up fuller ball on the over’s second delivery was clipped off Stafford’s toes through mid-wicket, the batters completing a single to secure the points. Hurley was the standout bowler for the Panthers, taking 3/46, Ramkumar grabbing 2/34. Consistent wickets fell throughout the Panthers’ batting innings, no one managing any score of significance as they eked-out their allotted overs. Ben Allison offered some stability in a rear-guard with the tail, hitting 37, while forming a 51-run stand with Gehan Seneviratne and a 27-run union with Ramkumar, after the Panthers fell to 6/90 in the 29th over. The loss sees Dandenong fall from 10th to 13th, putting a significant dent in their chances to qualify for finals action with just three rounds remaining, nine points adrift from Melbourne in eighth place. The Panthers host Camberwell in a twoday game next week with both days played over the same weekend, on Saturday and Sunday. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Pirates hijack the Bulls By Jonty Ralphsmith A clinical bowling performance from Parkmore (0/4) has it within sight of victory for a second consecutive week, this time against ladder leaders Dandenong West (104). Parkfield’s game against Lyndale also looks to be in the balance at the halfway point as the return to two-day cricket for the first time in 2024 appears to have shaken up the Dandenong District Cricket Association Turf 2 competition. Bowling to a reshuffled batting lineup, Parkmore wasn’t able to capitalise on the new ball, with openers Shaun Weir (37) and the promoted Matt Collett (33) both making starts. But neither was able to go on with their innings, from there the Bulls fell in a hole, bowled out for 104. Dilum Sasantha and Amal Athulathmudali built pressure before Ammar Bajwa (5/16 off 5.5) went on a tear to finish the hosts off. While Bajwa’s reputation with bat and ball is well established and Athulathmudali has the leadership badge, the club has been pleased by the progress of Sasantha. A left arm seam bowler, he had to bide his time to start the season, his only senior game before Christmas being against Parkfield. But a second XI four-wicket haul against Cranbourne was wedged between a series of impressive displays, enough to earn a call up for Round 10’s win where he helped dismantle Lyndale. Taking the wickets of Anthony Brannan and Nuwan Kulasekara, alongside Matt Collett un-
derlines his progress. He finished with figures of 3/25 off 14. Parkfield, meanwhile, was sent in to bat first by Lyndale and despite a series of solid starts throughout the order, including by both in-form openers, was unable to bat Lyndale out of the game, dismissed for 173. A loss for Parkfield this week would be a significant setback...from top-two contender to the top-four logjam. Heinz Southern Districts eased to 9/254 at home against Keysborough. Coming to the crease at number four with the match in the balance, Triyan De Silva played a counterattacking 70 to remind the competition of his batting talents, while Anuda Akmeemana also passed 50. It’s an excellent step forward for HSD, a club which has relied on its strong bowling unit to bail it out of trouble on multiple occasions this season. Twin five-wicket hauls to Narre’s Damien Gamage and Talal Shahzad kept Cranbourne to 175, but the Magpies were reduced to 3/44 before stumps to put the game back on an even ledger. Meanwhile in Turf 3, Coomoora has the first innings points against Hampton Park and is hunting an outright; another Jackson Marie century helped Berwick Springs set 6/327 against Doveton, which sits at 4/52; Doveton North has the first innings points against Lynbrook; and former Fountain Gate player Davandeep Premi punished his old side with a century, to put Silverton in a good position for an upset at 8/303.
Talal Shahzad took five wickets in an important performance for Narre Warren. 384314 Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC
Tajbir’s Powar-ful statement in breakout season for Lakers By Jonty Ralphsmith Young Lynbrook opener Tajbir Powar has turned heads this season with his fashionable technique and maturity at the crease. After showing glimpses across the last two seasons, the 17-year-old made a statement in his second innings of 2023-24 by blasting 92 off 143 at Coomoora, backing himself to play his own game despite chasing a mammoth 353 to win. While the Lakers fell short, he gave his team an excellent platform, meeting the ball with a straight bat and taking it up to a series of former Sub-District bowlers He backed it up the following week with a 62 against Berwick Springs, which set Lynbrook up to reach a match-winning 284. “I felt like I was very present in that (Coomoora) game,” Powar said. “I was watching the ball and playing the shots I wanted to play, so it was so important to set up the season for not only myself but also the team. “I played some good cricket shots against them and let them know that I can play.” Those two knocks increased his reputation significantly; when he has been dismissed cheaply in subsequent games, teams know they have dodged a bullet. Having preferenced clips in recent seasons when the ball is angling into his pad, Powar has put an emphasis on presenting the full face. It’s made a tangible difference this season, with several people around the league immediately associating Powar with his cracking on-drive. “I think teams are starting to target me on the pads,” Powar said. “I am going to stick to my game plan, look to play straight and stay present and in the moment taking each game on its merit. “I think I need to improve on my offside game a little bit more, as well as my footwork, because when I go to play on the offside, my feet don’t really move so I think that’s a main thing we need to work on.” Skipper Jay Walia asked him to open ahead of the season, and with that has come the ability to play with more poise and size up his conditions before taking the game on. Powar targeted 500 runs for this season and wanted to lead the Turf 3 run-scoring, but a finger injury sustained while fielding dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tajbir Powar has made waves around the DDCA Turf 3 competition this season. 383574 against Doveton on Saturday will likely see him fall short – he currently has 217 runs. Regardless, higher honours could be beckoning as soon as next season after representing Frankston-Peninsula in the U18 Vic Premier Cricket competition. “Taj does the work, he’s here before the rest of them putting in the hard yards,” said playing-coach Shane D’Rozario. “I get the pleasure of opening with him in the two-day game and you hear comments floating around about him when he plays certain cricket shots and I find it quite enter-
Picture: JONTY RALPHSMITH
taining - they’re just bewildered at some of the shots he can play. “I think he will fit in quite well at (Vic) Premier level and do Lynbrook proud.” Another factor crucial to Powar taking the next step has been the faith that his club has shown by continuing to select him in the First XI. It’s a route Lynbrook has started to take in recent years, and one it will continue to take to preserve the sustainability of the club. President Shayne Baker says the way Powar has climbed the ranks is critical for local
clubs such as Lynbrook. “I think that what Taj has done playing juniors and then coming forward and playing in our ones, making it with his own talents and performing this year, shows a pathway that kids don’t need to be leaving their local cricket clubs to find their way to premier cricket: if a kid is talented enough, he’s going to make it one way or another,” Baker said. “It shows everything we’re doing here to help our kids come through the right way is working.”
Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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STAR JOURNAL 15
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Tuesday, 23 January, 2024
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