EHD Star Journal - 13th February 2024

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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Rocky’s fight for life

Yarraman by-election

Elmo circus in town

Clubs stalwart testimonial

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ALP split choices

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Ex-Casey councillor Sam Afra is standing but believes he has “little chance” of winning.

388063 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Labor member Thay-Horn Yim is also in the contest as a “genuine candidate” to win. 388072 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Zahra Haydar Big is another ALP member vying for Yarraman Ward. 386246

Picture: GARY SISSONS

ALP member and candidate for the Yarraman by-election Phillip Danh says young blood is needed on council. 388124 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Former councillor Peter Brown believes the race is open for Picture: GARY SISSONS independents. 387906

whelmingly in favour of independent candidates rather than political partisans.

However, political party allegiance – particularly the ALP – dominate in Greater Dandenong’s composition.

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Brown, a former Greater Dandenong councillor and mayor, says the split between Labor candidates could open the race for independents or even Green candidate Lim. “You could take a group of 11 of these can-

didates and replace the existing councillors – and get a good council out of it.

“When you look at the experience, the education and the diversity, that candidates list has got the lot.”

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A split among ALP candidates may have “unpredictable” consequences at the upcoming Yarraman Ward byelection.

The 8 March poll fills a vacancy at Greater Dandenong Council, replacing ex-mayor Eden Foster who was recently elected as a Labor MP in Mulgrave.

Out of a field of 13 candidates, up to five Labor members are in the race. Two former ALP members are running as independents.

Law student and former electorate officer Phillip Danh – who helped on Foster’s campaign - is among those favoured to take the seat.

However, other ALP members Thay-Horn Yim, Sam Afra and Zahra Haydar Big say they are running to win against Danh.

Also in the contest are ex-ALP independents Ahmed Shukri and Peter Brown, Greens candidate Robert Lim, Victorian Socialist Tevyn Gov as well as unendorsed Liberal Will Billings.

In his first council tilt in 2020, he came within 90 votes of deposing Cr Tim Dark in Keysborough Ward.

“Hopefully we can pull it off this time round,” says Danh – who says the council needs a young councillor with fresh ideas.

“We’ll give it our best shot. I’m taking nothing for granted – it’s up to the voters.”

Party rules to preference other ALP members suggest that the winner will come from the Labor camp.

But as a result of the wide field, Danh says the result is “unpredictable”.

Afra, a former Casey councillor in 19972000 and “community advocate” for 30 years, says he has more experience than Danh but “little chance of winning”.

He believes there’s a “hidden agenda” to install Danh into the seat through preference deals among ALP candidates.

“I am a member of the Labor party for 31 years – before Phillip Danh was born.”

Another ALP member Yim says he’s running independent of factions or party support.

“I’m a genuine candidate, taking up a challenge to go through this process”.

“It’s not about party politics, it’s about the community.”

A Council Watch Victoria survey released last week showed respondents were over-

NEWS

Rocky’s fighting for life

By Sahar Foladi Catastrophe after another has left an elderly Dandenong resident fearing for her German Shepherd’s life.

Catie Bierkadar went through her worst nightmare when her pet Rocky was viciously attacked at home by another German Shepherd.

The uncontrolled dog incredibly leapt over the front fence and broke through a glass window to get to Rocky inside the house.

The mauling left Rocky with severe infections and injuries to his face and neck.

Pet Medical Crisis founder Jennifer Hunt is providing ongoing support to Ms Bierkadar and Rocky.

“What a terrible scenario. You think you’re safe sitting inside the house and a dog attacks your dog - Oh my God,“ Ms Hunt said.

“She does everything around that dog but couldn’t separate the two.

“She’s been to the vet three times already.

She can’t take him on a walk outside out of fear.”

The other dog’s apologetic owner fixed the broken window but Ms Bierkadar is left with a whopping $1,200 vet bill to pay.

“People should not walk their dogs off lead, it’s the unpredictability of what can happen,” Ms Hunt said.

“Had the dog been on a lead and had the proper training that could’ve been avoidable.”

Crowd fundraising has been organised by Ms Hunt for Rocky to help him with ongoing treatments estimated to easily climb over $5,000.

As a disability pensioner, Ms Bierkadar had been advised to own a dog. Then three years ago she came across Rocky’s photo and fell in love.

As the first owner of a dog, Ms Bierkadar

Jennifer Hunt, Rocky the German Shepherd and Catie Bierkadar. 387853 purchased Rocky for an enormous $4,000 unaware that the seller had bought him for $900 and sold her a dog with severe bilateral hip displacement.

Fortunately, Ms Hunt was able to raise $10,000 within hours for Rocky’s hip replacement, however severe complications almost saw him euthanised.

“We supported him with a wheelchair. It was back and forth with doctors.

“We got to a point he was well able to walk and he’s her lifeline,” Ms Hunt said.

Soon after, Rocky was stolen from the back-

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

yard after Ms Bierkadar went inside for a split moment only to hear Rocky barking and the sound of tyres screeching.

“She rang me and was hysterical,“ Ms Hunt said.

“The police went on patrols, we got on social media and thousands of people were looking for him.”

Thanks to everyone’s great efforts, Rocky was dumped back the next day at the address.

“He was absolutely sodden and freshly shampooed so someone had stolen him to sell.”

Ms Bierkadar moved house to Dandenong

Catie Bierkadar with Rocky, her ailing German Shepherd. 387853 North after that incident only for Rocky to be attacked inside their own house where her housemate had to prise open the dog’s grasp on Rocky.

He was left with sore legs, constantly sick, mouth infection and infected bites around his neck.

Ms Bierkadar and Ms Hunt both hope that the funds can save Rocky for the second time.

To donate, go to givenow.com.au/cr/savingrocky or to givenow.com.au/cr/savingpensionerspets

Freeway driver ‘cursed by witch’ before horror smash

By AAP Just before getting behind the wheel of a 19-tonne truck and killing four police, Mohinder Singh asked his boss to break a witch’s curse on him.

High on drugs and short on sleep, Singh believed he had been visited by a witch and was having visions due to her curse.

He told his trucking supervisor, Simiona Tuteru, because he was a church pastor.

“I hadn’t had any sleep, I was seeing things, I thought I was cursed by a witch and I was traumatised from it,“ Singh told the Supreme Court in Melbourne on Tuesday last week.

The pair searched Singh’s truck for items a witch may have left, including voodoo dolls and pieces of hair.

Tuteru then placed his hand on his worker’s head and told him: “In Jesus’ name I cast a spell out of you.“ The Connect Logistics supervisor then al-

lowed Singh to drive the semi-trailer, telling him “you’re right to go now“ after the prayer and asked him to drive one truckload, Singh told the court.

Singh drove the truck down Melbourne’s Eastern Freeway, veered into an emergency lane and struck four Victoria Police officers.

Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King and constables Josh Prestney and Glen Humphris, all died at the scene, on the afternoon of April 22, 2020.

Tuteru texted another pastor after the prayer: “Just prayed salvation and deliverance with a driver this arvo, broke curses and witchcraft.“ The details were aired in court during Tuteru’s pre-sentence hearing after he pleaded guilty to a heavy vehicle offence.

Singh is serving an 18-and-a-half-year prison term for the crash, which was reduced from 22 years on appeal after he agreed to give evidence against his former boss.

He was brought from prison to give evi-

dence to the court on Tuesday, where he took to the witness stand wearing a grey prison tracksuit.

“I was deeply troubled by fatigue,“ Singh said, about the day of the crash.

However, Tuteru denies Singh told him he was tired before he drove the truck.

Defence barrister David Hallowes SC accused Singh of fabricating his evidence to get a more lenient sentence in his appeal.

“You knew by making a statement against Mr Tuteru that that might help in your appeal,“ Mr Hallowes asked.

Singh said he was telling the truth about his conversation with Tuteru, but accepted his undertaking to give evidence had helped him reduce his sentence.

Prosecutor Matthew Fisher asked Justice James Elliott to accept Singh’s version of events, and said the lack of sleep was “part and parcel“ of the conversation about the witch’s curse.

He called for Tuteru to be handed a “sub-

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stantial fine“ for allowing Singh to drive before the crash, or a “lengthy“ community corrections order.

“This case comes down to one decision by one man,“ Mr Fisher said.

“Allowing him to get behind the wheel is a sliding doors moment - it should never have happened.“ Families of the four victims attended the court, and Const Prestney’s brother, father and mother gave statements.

“The night we lost him, I felt like I wasn’t there for him and I couldn’t protect him,“ Alex Prestney said.

“It’s February 2024 and we are still debating responsibility of how my brother and his colleagues were hit by a 20-tonne truck on the Eastern Freeway.“ Justice Elliott will sentence Tuteru, who remains on bail, at a later date.

He was initially charged with manslaughter, but those charges were dropped about six days before he was due to face trial.

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NEWS

Locals hit as builder folds

By Violet Li Affected families by the collapse of the Victorian builder Montego Homes are reeling from losing their deposits and their dream houses in the Casey South region.

South Melbourne builder Montego Homes went into voluntary administration in January, with Sam Kaso and Shaun Matthews of insolvency service Cor Cordis appointed as administrators to assess the best way to restructure or recapitalise the business.

Key initial findings have shown that 63 homeowners are affected by the company not having appropriate insurance in place for deposit holders.

According to the Victorian Building Authority, when a building contract is worth more than $16,000, builders are required to purchase Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) for their clients, which would cover incomplete or defective building works.

By law, a builder cannot take any payment, including a deposit from the client, until the insurance is in effect and the client has been given a copy of the insurance certificate.

Casey South is one of the regions Montego Homes has been active, with more than 50 out of its 171 sales listings fanning across Clyde, Clyde North, Cranbourne, and Cranbourne East.

Uninsured creditor Nicole Clarke, who bought a block of land in Cranbourne East, has still been processing the news with a heavy heart.

She lost $13,825, which took her over a year to save.

“It’s not huge, but it’s decent enough to be upset about this because you can’t get it back,” she said.

“Trying to buy anything at the moment in this climate is just ridiculous. Almost impossible. So, saving money for a deposit and then losing it is pretty devastating.”

Ms Clarke signed the contract around late November in 2023 and was urged to pay for the deposits over and over in the following month.

She eventually paid the 5 per cent deposit on 9 January this year and received an email from one of the directors Lachlan Lyndon saying thank you and wishing her a happy new year.

“I am assuming everything is okay,” she said.

“Then on 17 January, I found out that they had got into a voluntary liquidation.”

Having missed the State Government’s Liquidated Builders Customer Support Payment Scheme that pays out the creditors of 16 collapsed builders during the last two years and closes on 29 January, she had to restart.

However, she was hesitant to go out and look for another builder as she lost trust in the industry.

“I don’t want this to happen to me again and have to restart all over again and re-save again,” she said.

“I was thinking about selling it [the land].

Locals are in limbo after another builder went into voluntary administration.

“This is my first time buying a house. I knew it was going to be difficult, but I didn’t expect it to be this difficult.”

Ms Clarke said there had to be harsher penalties for builders who skip the insurance.

“These builders need to be held accountable for what they do,” she said.

“There has to be some consequence to their action because we’re paying for it.”

Paul Elsharouny, another uninsured creditor, lost over $15,000 from a deposit for his single-story house in Clyde North.

He signed the contract in March 2023 and immediately paid the deposit.

Ten months later, he was in shock when he discovered the collapse of Montego Homes through an email.

“As soon they sign a contract with a customer and take a deposit, they should look at the price of some materials and they should purchase as much material as they can to avoid the surprise raise for the material cost.

“But obviously they didn’t do that. One year later, when the land is due to be built, they find out that all material costs have been raised by 10 or 20 per cent.”

Mr Elsharouny said the government failed to observe and audit those builders.

“After what happened with Porter Davis last year, the government should have been

Picture: GENERIC

warned and put more strict laws in place to observe these builders, but this didn’t happen,” he said.

“We lost our life savings, and we still need to continue with our life.

“We still need to go to another builder and make a new deal according to the current price market, which is more expensive than when we did with our original company.”

Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability Evan Mulholland said Porter Davis should have been a wake-up call for Labor but the serious issues with domestic building insurance non-compliance clearly had not been addressed.

“No Victorian should lose a home deposit because of Labor’s incompetence. Jacinta Allan must commit to extending the support scheme until the issues plaguing domestic building insurance are resolved,” he said.

Shadow Minister for Planning James Newbury said Labor wasn’t doing enough to protect Victorians and their families from rogues.

“Buying a home is tough. New homebuyers shouldn’t also be fearful of a building company collapsing, and losing hard-earned deposits, because the State Labor Government isn’t strong enough to stand up to dodgy behaviour,” he said.

Uninsured creditor Paul Elsharouny lost over a $15k deposit for his single-story house in Clyde North in the Montego Homes collapse.

Picture: SUPPLIED A government spokesman told The Age that a bill had been introduced to the Parliament to create tough penalties for builders failing to meet their DBI requirement.

The State Government has been contacted for comment by Star News.

Axe-wielding intruder jailed after guilty plea

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An ice-addled and armed home intruder who erratically fled in a stolen car and veered off the road to avoid a police intercept has been jailed.

Trent Harrison, 39, of Dandenong, pleaded guilty to a range of charges at the Victorian County Court including dangerous driving, unlicensed driving, aggravated burglary, car theft and breaching bail and intervention orders.

In June 2022, Harrison sent a ‘dick pic’ and text messages to a Hampton Park woman.

She responded she was reporting him to police, adding “you deserve everything you get”.

“Yeah so will you in the next 20, you’ve been playing me the whole time now it’s my turn,” Harrison typed back.

Within 20 minutes, Harrison was armed with a meat cleaver and an axe multi-tool

trying to break into her home.

He pried open two outside French doors with the cleaver despite the victim’s attempts to keep them shut.

She was flung backwards as he forced his way into the home. Another occupant was cut on the wrist by wood that flew off the door.

Ranting and raving, Harrison rifled through bedroom drawers before stealing car keys and the victim’s Commodore.

Later that night, police attempted to intercept the car in Hampton Park. But Harrison fled out of sight despite police activating their lights and siren.

Air Wing officers observed the Commodore being driven with headlights off on the wrong side of a wet road.

Harrison narrowly missed a head-on crash while overtaking on Pound Road, Narre Warren South, and drove off the road to dodge

endeavourhillshallamdoveton.starcommunity.com.au

police stop sticks on Filmer Crescent.

Despite police demands to get out of the car, Harrison tried to accelerate his Commodore which was bogged in mud.

An officer smashed the car window and twice tasered Harrison, who was eventually pulled from the car and arrested.

Harrison later admitted he was affected by meth at the time.

His victim described to the court her terror and continued flashbacks. Her car was subsequently a write-off.

In sentencing on 8 February, County Court judge Kellie Blair noted Harrison was motivated to steal rather than assault during his armed break-in.

His erratic driving while in a “poor state” was a “serious” example of dangerous driving.

The judge noted Harrison’s “significant” prior criminal history but also his long bat-

tles with mental illnesses, drug abuse and a significantly neglected, deprived childhood.

According to a psychologist expert, he’d require extensive community supports including medication management and a rehab facility to address his “chaotic mode of living”.

His high risk of reoffending would otherwise be heightened by drug use, unstable accommodation and a lack of routine.

In a “difficult” sentence, Harrison was convicted and jailed for 16 months – which includes about a year already served in remand.

He will then serve an 18-month community corrections order including supervision, judicial monitoring and drug and mental health treatment.

He was disqualified from driving for a year.

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Casey Crs muse on return

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey’s sacked ex-councillors are weighing up comebacks ahead of council elections in October.

Eight months ahead of the poll, ex-deputy mayor Rex Flannery has declared he’d run, with several others reportedly undecided.

In 2020, Casey councillors were sacked by then-Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek during the early stages of IBAC’s corruption inquiry Operation Sandon.

The inquiry report last year found former Casey mayors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett accepted more than $1.15 million in payments and in-kind support from developer John Woodman.

They were found to promote Woodman’s interests in several key planning decisions at Casey without declaring their conflict of interest.

It’s yet to be seen whether any of the excouncillors will face criminal charges.

Unless convicted, they would be free to stand for re-election.

Aziz, Ablett and Woodman have denied wrong-doing.

Ex-deputy mayor Rex Flannery, who was not named in IBAC’s report and has a “clear conscience”, was “definitely” going to run for re-election.

But he may re-consider if some of his excolleagues also stand.

“I don’t want to work with them again. It’s not right – my conscience would tell me to withdraw from council.”

Any Operation Sandon-related prosecutions needed to be finalised before the October election.

“Otherwise we’ll all have a cloud hanging over our heads.”

A “bloc” of his ex-colleagues - who were allied to Aziz - should not be running in the elec-

The 2017 opening of Bunjil Place with former Casey CEO Mike Tyler (from left) , and ex-councillors Rex Flannery, Amanda Stapledon, Timothy Jackson, Milla Gilic, Susan Serey, Sam Aziz, Jason Wood MP, and ex-councillors Wayne Smith, Geoff Ablett and Damien Rosario. 174129 tions, Mr Flannery said. “They’ve got a cheek or an audacity to do it.”

Liberal ex-councillor Gary Rowe – who said he hadn’t been considering running for reelection - said he wouldn’t want to be “part of a circus” if Aziz and Ablett stood.

ALP former mayor Wayne Smith – the longest-serving Casey councillor – told Star News that he was undecided.

“I’ve not said yes or no.”

Asked what would motivate him to stand for re-election, Mr Smith said: “I was cut off in my prime. I had a lot more to do.

“It’s about trying to regain the city. The administrators have not done a good job – the people don’t feel comfortable.

“Driving around and looking at the city, it looks shocking ... the unmowed grass, the rubbish around the place. Someone needs to make sure they’re on top of it.”

He called on the next council to get “back to basics – rates, roads, rubbish and infrastructure that have been neglected by an absent group of administrators.”

Casey councillors, except for Liberal member Damien Rosario – who was not the subject of any adverse findings in IBAC’s report.

“No doubt he is running. All of sudden he’s got more prominent,” Mr Smith said, adding that he himself had continued to be active in the community over the past four years.

Rosario told Star News that he was “undecided” on whether to stand.

According to The Age, Serey was also undecided while Rise Up Australia member Rosalie Crestani was reportedly “not ruling (it) out”.

Former councillor Steve Beardon, who resigned in 2017, called for voters not to “return to the past”.

“Are these former Cr’s even aware of the stink from tips, disgraceful public transport, cost of living pressure?

“Casey needs a fresh start…not a return to the past.

“I doubt they have a chance if they declare they are mostly membered to political parties.

The community expect local councillors to be independent.”

When asked if ex-councillors would carry “baggage” from the IBAC inquiry, Mr Smith said there were “misconceptions” about what happened at Casey.

“There were things said and not said that weren’t as they were reported.”

In August, he opposed IBAC’s adverse findings that he’d not declared conflict-of-interests in planning decisions involving developer John Woodman.

He declared the process “unfair” and that his responses supplying the “full context” didn’t appear in the final report.

Former Liberal-member mayor Susan Serey reportedly texted a comment to The Age, that referenced the death of former Liberal mayor Amanda Stapledon during Operation Sandon.

“I hope that if any of the former councillors are alive and haven’t committed suicide, that all of them run and reclaim the city back to [sic] the people.”

Smith said the text was “a bit strong-worded” but agreed with the sentiment. “I see where she’s coming from.”

He says he’s not kept in contact with former

Meth allegedly imported in laundry liquid, man charged A Melbourne man has been charged after being allegedly linked to the attempted importation of 132 litres of liquid methamphetamine concealed in bottles of washing detergent.

The British national, 28, was expected to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today (6 February), charged with the attempted possession and trafficking of a commercial quantity of methamphetamine.

Australian Border Force (ABF) members detected anomalies in a consignment of pallets containing bottles labelled as ‘ultra concentrate detergent’ sparking a joint AFP and Victoria police investigation in January.

Forensic testing on the consignment allegedly established that 21 of the 319 bottles contained liquid methamphetamine.

The total volume of the methamphet-

A man was arrested in the South East by police as part of an investigation into methamphetamine hidden in imported laundry liquid. amine was determined to be 132 litres, which has an estimated street value of $30 million.

Further forensic examination is ongoing

to determine the purity of the seized drugs.

Police seized the bottles allegedly containing the illicit drugs and allowed the rest of the shipment to continue for delivery to a storage facility in Melbourne’s South East.

They then raided properties in Brighton, Bentleigh East and Dandenong, allegedly seizing phones, electronic devices and a small quantity of MDMA and methamphetamines.

The man was arrested and charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of methamphetamine and with trafficking a commercial quantity of methamphetamine.

The offences carry a potential maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Rick Briggs said methamphetamine was

an extremely addictive illicit drug and caused immense psychological, financial and social harm to users and those around them.

“Criminals have little regard for how these harmful drugs impact people, their families, and the community,” Det Acting Supt Briggs said.

“This significant seizure demonstrates the importance of the collaboration between the AFP and our law enforcement partners to disrupt attempts by organised crime to import illicit drugs.

“Criminals will continue to find crafty ways to get harmful drugs into Australia, but that won’t stop the AFP from putting them behind bars.”

The investigation into the organised crime syndicate responsible for this importation is ongoing.

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NEWS

Side raring for 2024

Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso and Cornerstone chief executive Naomi Paterson take a swing at Kingston Heath ahead of the charity golf Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS day on 20 February. 386693

Teeing off for Cornerstone charity The annual Take a Swing for Charity Golf Day is set to raise funds for well-loved Dandenong charity Cornerstone.

A target of more than $50,000 will help build a multi-purpose space at Cornerstone for storing food items and emergency relief as well as a drop-in space at its community garden.

It will help double the centre’s hours of operation and support up to 300 extra people a week.

Already, Cornerstone provides multiple sitdown breakfasts, lunches or dinners per week, along with emergency food parcels, a mobile laundry and shower and a community health nurse for the homeless.

“We just had one of our biggest lunches for this year,” chief executive Naomi Paterson said.

“We’re seeing more people and lots of new faces in crisis at the moment - people struggling with bills and regular payments and struggling to find affordable housing.”

The 15th annual golf day, jointly supported

by Greater Dandenong Council and industry sponsors, is being held at Kingston Heath - one of the finest golf clubs in the world and host to the 2028 President’s Cup. It has long been regarded as a chance for businesses to give back to the community.

The event has raised $650,000 for 17 local

charities, helping thousands experiencing food insecurity, poverty, homelessness, domestic violence and health issues.

Funds have also supported programs to remove barriers to employment and to assist people with disabilities.

Organiser Sandra George advised for those not into golf to consider donating an auction item or attending the dinner and auction.

Take A Swing for Charity Golf Day is on Tuesday 20 February at Kingston Heath Golf Club.

Details: Sandra George at sandra.george@ cgd.vic.gov.au or 0419 362 745.

Biodiversity make-over for saved park A recently-saved parkland in Noble Park is blooming with native grasses and wildflowers as part of a new council design.

In 2021, Greater Dandenong Council bought the parkland with a stand of 26 river red gum trees from the developers of Yarraman Village estate.

It averted the woodland’s destruction after VCAT approved a further eight townhouses on the Hanna Street reserve.

Since striking the deal, the council’s parks officers have been transforming the site.

The new gardens have supported the continued good health of the red gums and created an attractive space for humans and wildlife, a council spokesperson said.

It started with an assessment of tree health, then a plan to repair soil health.

Building rubble was removed and mulching and understorey flora was planted at the base of trees.

Two native grass species Weeping Grass and Wallaby Grass have been used as part of a successful turf trial.

“Historically lawns in Greater Dandenong have consisted of exotic grasses from overseas, which can become problematic weeds when they escape managed lawns,” a council spokesperson said.

“Native grasses benefit a biodiverse environment.”

Bollards were also installed to keep out vehicles.

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Wildflowers in the biodiverse garden in Hanna Street, Noble Park. 386536 The project is part of the council’s program of planting ‘biodiverse gardens’ across the city.

“Through careful plant selection and appropriate garden management practices, Biodiverse Gardens help turn open space into valuable habitats for native species - including

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

Picture: GARY SISSONS

the Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo,” the spokesperson said.

“A healthy biodiverse environment is also essential for human health and wellbeing.”

For information on creating gardens for wildlife, go to greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ gardens-for-wildlife

Despite rumours to the contrary, Sandown Cobras All-Abilities football side is still very much alive.

The multi-winning club is seeking male and female players aged 16-plus with a disability for the upcoming 2024 Football Integration Development Association (FIDA) season.

Based at Edinburgh Reserve, coach and administrator Doug West has been in footy across Melbourne for 50 years or so.

He remains the backbone of the team.

Late last year, the team’s parent club Sandown Cobras Football Netball Club went into recess for 2024. It cited a lack of playing numbers and funds.

It led to some wrongly thinking the final whistle had blown for the All-Abilities side, despite recent premiership glories.

“In close to 15 years, we’ve had three grand final runs and won two of them.

And we’ve been in finals every year except during Covid lockdowns,” West says. “That’s not bad for a little club.”

There’s no sign of financial strife, with the club able to subsidise player registrations.

West just needs more help – such as goal umpires, a runner, a trainer, team manager and canteen workers – for Sunday games as well as training twice a week.

He’s a proud advocate for the value of sport for building up young people.

“All-abilities is important not only for Greater Dandenong. Every council should be getting in and doing it.”

Training runs on Mondays and Wednesdays, 5pm-6.30pm at Edinburgh Reserve, Springvale.

Details: Doug West on 0407 837 667

Servo death A man has died at a service station in Dandenong South on Friday 9 February.

Emergency services were called to the business on Greens Road just before 1pm.

“Police will prepare a report for the coroner,“ a Victoria Police spokesperson said. “The death is not being treated as suspicious.“

Passenger dies in truck crash A female passenger has died after a rental truck crashed into a pole at Noble Park North.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives say the truck was travelling north along Jacksons Road just before 3am on Monday 12 February when it left the roadway and struck a pole.

The passenger, yet to formally identified, died at the scene.

The driver, a 32-year-old man, fled on foot.

He was found by the Canine Unit near the intersection of Elonera Road and Princes Highway Noble Park.

He is being questioned by police.

“The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing,“ a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

Any information or dashcam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

THE WHAT DAY IS IT BIT

Victoria’s bathing experiences are a short trip from home, but light years from the real world. Don’t be alarmed by that strange feeling – that’s just your stress melting away.

Unwind at revitalising places like Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. VISITVICTORIA.COM

12665178-AA07-24

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 7

LOOKING BACK 100 years ago 14 February 1924 Value of Electricity Because the electric light is cool in comparison with lamps or gas, the idea of using it as a heating agent is unfamiliar to many. This form of energy can, however, be converted into heat very easily, and, as no combustion takes place, it becomes possible to use it in any situation, and apply it very directly to the object or material which it is desired to warm.

Familiar examples of electric heating “on the spot” are found in the electric flat iron, the kettle and many small utensils for warming food and liquids. These can generally be connected to any lighting fixtures and offer the handiest and safest means of securing moderate amounts of heat cleanly and quickly which has ever been made available.

50 years ago 14 February 1974 Railways to extent?

The Victorian Railway is considering extending the Melbourne electric train service through Dandenong to Pakenham. The Railway’s general manager Mr E P Rogan said the service could begin early next year if the railways were convinced there would be sufficient patronage and if enough electric trains were available. About 5000 households between Hallam and Pakenham are being asked to fill in questionnaires to give the railways some sort of indication of the service needed.

There are only six trains running daily from Pakenham to Melbourne. To Melbourne there are three early morning trains then there are no trains between 10.07am and 4.52pm a gap of almost seven hours.

20 years ago 9 February 2004 Vote split in battle for mayor Bitter divisions within Greater Dandenong’s Labor ranks could foil the plans of a key powerbase to deliver the City’s Mayoralty to rookie councillor Clare O’Neil. Despite serving the

Trees were torn down by the fierce afternoon storm in late January 2019.

city for less than a year, some sources say Cr O’Neil, with strong backing form Lyndhurst MP Tim Holding, is a “shoo in” on March 17 to replace Kevin Walsh. Labor councillors Maria Sampey and Paul Donovan have indicated support for long-term Liberal councillor John Kelly, while Cr Roz Blades, also an ALP Member, has not ruled out backing him. Of the 11 councillors it is believed Cr O’Neil already has the backing of councillors Walsh, Naim Melhem, Angela Long, and Peter Brown.

“She only needs one more vote…but there’s a few undecided and fed-up with factional games,” one councillor said.

5 years ago 11 February 2019 Battered by the storm A big clean up was undertaken after wild storms lashed across Greater Dandenong bringing down trees and cutting off power to homes on Wednesday evening 30 January.

After a sweltering hot day, a “mini tornado” sparked dozens of calls for help with the Dandenong SES responding to 33 jobs from 5pm.

From 5.30pm onwards SES unit was kept busy assisting residents with trees on cars, trees on houses and garages and trees on roads. The Bureau of Meteorology said wind gusts ranged between 90km/h to 100km/h.

Compiled by Dandenong & District Historical Society

Apply now Community Grants Program Do you have a project, program or event that supports the Greater Dandenong community?

Our Medium Grants Program provides one-off grants of up to $10,000 to individuals and non-profit community organisations to deliver: Community Development Climate Change initiatives Arts Festivals and events Round 1 is open between Monday 12 February and Tuesday 12 March.

Grant information sessions will be available to learn about Council Grant programs.

Apply online and find out more at:

greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/grants

12664385-AA05-24

8 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

12668024-HC07-24

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Backlash on MPs expenses

By Ethan Benedicto, AAP

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas travelled to Chicago in the U.S. for a Neetroots Nations event.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Ann-Marie Hermans MP travelled to Armenia to attend an AIJAC event.

weighed in on the appropriateness of the international trips, stating that “there’s political risk for MPs who take on these trips because of exactly what’s happening.”

“I think any sort of expenditure by government is going to be scrutinised by the public, especially in times where there is great interest in cost of living, cost of living pressures, housing affordability.”

A political scientist from Monash’s school of social sciences, Dr Ghazarian added that “these trips should be opportunities for MPs to try and enhance their knowledge and their skillset, and help them make better or more effective policy decisions.”

“But of course, these are the rules, it’s not as if MPs have acted illegally or done something

that is improper, they’re acting within their existing entitlements. Really it’s up to the community to then pass judgement on whether those sorts of trips and the justifications the MPs had made pass what the community standards are.

“Whether they believe they are getting value for money from the trips and sorts of investments that are being made in their MPs’ travel arrangements,” Dr Ghazarian said.

Upper House MP Lee Tarlamis made his second trip to India that year with Mrs Wilson, spending a total of $4689 for a stay from 5 to 18 September 2023.

A few months earlier, Mr Tarlamis made his first trip to India between 10 to 19 February, costing $6194.

Continued page 10

The delegation trip was aimed at “strengthening our bilateral ties, exploring potential business opportunities, and to further understand the shared values and interests between Victoria and India,” she said.

Her travel report included further details and statistics on trade dynamics between Victoria and India, as well as an emphasis on strengthening bilateral ties.

According to the Members of Parliament guidelines, an MP may claim the international travel allowance for travel and transport costs to perform their public duties.

In addition, the allowance also covers accommodation, meals and incidentals when an MP is overseas.

Dr Zareh Ghazarian from Monash University

12669191-AP07-24

Local representatives are among the fray as Victorian MPs received backlash for the amount spent on international travel expenses in the past year.

A total of $28,319 in taxpayer funds was spent by four MPs representing the southeast, two of who are in the Upper House, on trips to North America and Asia. According to statistics from the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal, each MP has an international travel allowance of $10,765 per annum, which is used to perform public duties overseas.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas was America-bound, spending a total of $6216 on a flight to Chicago, Illinois to attend a Neetroots Nations Conference from 11 to 22 July 2023.

In a statement outlined in his travel report, Maas said that the reason for his travel was that “communication techniques and platforms are evolving and changing quickly.

“I want to research the latest platforms and techniques from progressive parties and organisations to be able to provide information and receive feedback from constituents via different platforms,” Maas said.

Throughout the trip, Mr Maas attended all three plenary sessions and nine training/professional development panels over the conference’s three days. He further stated in the report that he would “thoroughly recommend this conference to other members of parliament.”

He added that it’s for those “who are interested in improving or keeping up with the latest communication strategies and organising tools for their electorates.”

In the electorate above, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson joined Upper House member Lee Tarlamis on a trip to India from the dates of 6 to 18 September 2023.

Costing a total of $4575, Mrs Wilson’s travel statement said that the purpose of the trip was to further build on the relationship between Victoria and India.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Meet the candidates for AHMED SHUKRI Suburb of residence: Noble Park North How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? 29years Political party (past or present): No Affiliations Occupation, business/employer name: Business Consultant Property interests: None Business interests: None Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

I will be a strong and independent voice for the Yarraman ward regarding: Strategy and transparency on rooming houses in the Dandenong West area.

Fight the planned exit and privatization of age care and homecare services by the current council scheduled for June 2024.

Better support services for local sporting community groups, sports teams and local

businesses.

Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): As a returning candidate in the Yarraman ward,I have been an active volunteer and community mobiliser. Am the Founding director at Victorian Youth Support Services Association (VYSSA) an outreach mentoring & support focused youth organization for disadvantaged youth and South Eastern United Soccer (popularly known as South Eastern Panthers FC). Launched the first African Australian Students Learning Support Pilot Program with Lyndale Secondary College. Executive member African Australian Leadership Forum and ordinary member of SMRC. Why are you standing for election?

I am rerunning for local council to actively contribute to the betterment of our communities by addressing issues and areas in: 1. Passion for change and public service (council) - A commitment and genuine desire to improve education, healthcare,

infrastructure, or environmental outcomes for our residents.

2. Representation: I believe in the importance of diverse representation in government to ensure that the voices of all community members are heard and considered. This is also particularly of great important the aspirations of younger generations within the diverse communities. “You can’t be what you can’t see” – Marian Wright Eldman 3. Commitment to Accountability & Transparency: This is particularly important for ward concerns around the deafening silence of council towards best practice rooming houses issues, upcoming proposed (June2024) privatization of Aged care and home care services by the current council.

4. Support for local sporting groups and local business.

What is your campaign budget?

2,000

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

As per my last campaign in 2020, I remain committed to not accepting outside donations from corporations, real estate developers, businesses, and any donations with a conflict of interest, thus only took donations from family and friends only What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

When I ran in Yarraman Ward in 2020 I was advised and encouraged by Former Mayor and Councillor Roz Blades AM, Cr Jim Memetti, Cr Sean O’Reilly. On this current campaign I have been in contact with Jim Memetti, Rhonda Garad amongst others.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

No preferential deals, Happy for the local residents to make their independent informed choices based on candidate policies. Hope they can also judge on candidate merit and not party support or affiliations.

THAY-HORN YIM Suburb of residence: Dandenong How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? Over 25 years Political party (past or present): ALP Occupation, business/employer name: Professional Senior Immigration Advisor, over 25 yrs Property interests: have properties in the city Business interests: Yim Migration Service Three most important issues for your ward

(in 50 words or less)?

Upgrading Council civic facilities including neighbourhood safety and environment, such as street safety, rubbish removal, cleaning-graffiti, repairing roads, parks, footpaths and youth services. I will oppose any privatisation of vital Council services like aged and home care. It’s time for a real independent voice with a fresh approach.

Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): My extensive volunteer work spans 25 years, contributing to school councils. I am a member of the Dandenong West Community Action Group and focused on improving community safety. Looking to promote sporting

activities in our community, I am a sponsor of the Dandenong West Cricket Club. Over the years, I have participated many social multicultural activities in the city such as Crime Prevention Forum, Interfaith Network, Israel/Palestine Peace Pray at the Harmony Squares, temples and churches.

Why are you standing for election?

My wife and I who have raised four children have lived in the Greater Dandenong for over 25 years. I pledge to address resident’s concerns and work towards improving the beauty, cleanliness, and safety of our city. I am your real independent voice on the Council.

What is your campaign budget?

I don’t know yet.

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

I don’t have any donors at this time.

What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

I have received many suggestions from various experts in the field and I am grateful of advice.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

I would ask electors to vote [1] for Yim, ThayHorn. As for [2], [3], [4] …, I would ask electors please consider who will be best to represent Yarraman if they cannot vote [1] for Yim, Thay-Horn.

ZAHRA HAYDAR BIG Suburb of residence: Dandenong North How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?

Since early 2021 Political party (past or present): I have my Labor membership Occupation, business/employer name: Property interests: Own a house where I live at Dandenong North Business interests: NIL Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

Social Justice, economy and Environmental sustainability issues need stronger advocacy to be addressed and to be allocated with more relevant ongoing fundings specially post COVID19 such as: Housing, Employment, Human Rights/Discriminations, Community Wellbeing including for the local residents with disabilities, the local Youth and for the local Seniors.

Describe your involvement in the local

community (in 50 words or less): Since 2008 calling Australia, Victoria home and raising my children here I have been involved in the local Multicultural Community by delivering many Community Development Projects including inclusive local Community advocacy which I started at Greater Shepparton in Regional Victoria and have continued here at Greater Dandenong since I moved in few years ago.

Why are you standing for election?

Standing for the local Council elections for the second time has developed my Community missions and my Council aims even stronger by being involved in the local Multicultural Community’s development projects and programs including for the local Businesses. For the last few years I have successfully completed many Community Development projects supported by the local Council of Greater Dandenong and were delivered in partnership with the great local initiatives of South East Community Links, Australian Foundation House and SisterWorks Inc across Greater Dandenong including at Yarraman, parts of Noble Park and at Dande-

nong West.

Now my aim is to have a stronger voice for Yarraman Ward as a potential Multicultural Councillor I will be able to have a seat around the decision making table of the local Council so that I can be an inclusive and stronger voice for the local residents and for the local business owners advocating for the social justice issues including for the local economy issue and the environmental sustainability issue which need to be allocated with more relevant ongoing fundings specially post COVID19.

As a local School Councillor at Lyndale Greens Primary School in Dandenong and as a Board Directory of Victoria Police’s Multicultural Advisory Group my Community knowledge, experiences and my integrity have played huge roles in developing, planning and in delivering many Community development projects and initiatives successfully by which I’m confident to say that if I receive your vote number one I can bring all my relevant expertise on the decision making table and I will be an asset on the local Council.

I encourage all the local residents and local Business owners to refer to my website: Zahra Haydarbig for more relevant info and/ or to contact me for more info.

What is your campaign budget? $10,000 to $20,000 Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

A few local Business owners, the exact amount is to be confirmed as it is still in the progress.

What councilors, ex-councilors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

Current local Mayor Lana, Current Deputy Mayor Richard, Cr Jim, Cr Rhonda, Cr Sophia, Former Mayor Eden, Julian MP, Cassandra MP, Current Mayor Jenna City of Kingston, Cr Anthony Brophy of Greater Shepparton City Council, Kim O’Keeffe MP from Shepparton.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

I’m still working on that and getting to know the local candidates better.

· · ·

Backlash builds as MPs travel expenses revealed From page 9 In that February trip’s travel report, he began by acknowledging that “the largest Indian population in Victoria is in the South Eastern suburbs.”

“I travelled to India to strengthen the relationship between Victoria and India.

“Make contacts with business executives and government officials, and comprehend the shared values and interests of our governments to inform my job as their Legislative Council representative,” Mr Tarlamis said.

An extensive itinerary was included in Mr Tarlamis’ report, one that detailed his attendance at events, meetings with ministers and visits to landmarks. Both Mr Tarlamis and Mrs Wilson provided a recommendations section on the report, where they provided their ad10 STAR JOURNAL

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vice regarding their findings.

To attend an Australia Israel and Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) parliamentary research event, Upper House MP Ann-Marie Hermans was the other southeast representative to travel overseas. While not specifically detailed in her personal travel report, Mrs Hermans travelled with Rowville MP Kim Wells to Yerevan from 7 to 20 July 2023.

Costing a total of $5868, Mrs Hermans’ travel agenda was included in Mr Wells’, where both parties dedicated their travel to the south-east’s many Armenian communities.

“The Armenian community have reached out to develop relationships with members of parliament and want to be heard.

“Firstly, the Armenians have requested that the Victorian Parliament establish a Par-

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

liamentary Friendship Group with Armenia.

“The objective of the trip to Armenia is to decide whether we will support a ‘Parliamentary Friends of Armenia’ and/or be members of the group,” the report said.

This report provided an extensive summary of the trip and included a section listing their achievements which included improvement in bi-partisan relations and further understanding of Armenia’s diplomatic tensions.

Premier Jacinta Allan supported the availability of claiming international travel allowance to backbenchers. Ms Allan said that “there is an independent process that sits over the decisions around members of parliament’s allowances and rates of pay, that’s what it should be.”

“We all have a responsibility that should we

choose to take up these allowances, we need to do it responsibly.”

This comes as the Premier herself recently announced that while the city hasn’t been announced, she would be making a trip to India sometime later this year.

Travel reports for each MP are available to the public for viewing and can be accessed through their respective Parliament of Victoria website.

There, one can personally see an MP’s expenses, as well as other items such as their trip itinerary, objectives, the reason for travel and a breakdown of their findings throughout the trip. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Yarraman by-election ALEXANDRA BRYANT Suburb of residence: Dandenong How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? My entire life Political party (past or present): Australian Labor Party Occupation, business/employer name: Community Services Worker Property interests: none, I am a renter Business interests: none Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

Council doing more to help those facing disadvantage, including emergency food relief.

Stopping the privatisation of aged and home care.

More small grants for local community and sports groups.

Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): I am a past member of the Springvale Historical Society, the Dandenong and District Historical Society, play for and on the committee of a Football Netball Club in the local SFNL competition. My professional work also occurs locally and across the south east.

Why are you standing for election?

I want to help make the City of Greater Dandenong an even greater place for all

· · ·

people to live, work and play. I now and love this community, it is where I have loved all my life. I understand this community, not just because of having lived and grown up here, including completing all my primary and secondary schooling in Springvale. But also through my work in community services which has given me further insight to various challenges our community faces.

I want to use my experience, insight and passion to help Greater Dandenong be the greatest it can be.

What is your campaign budget?

I’m doing a grassroots campaign on a shoestring budget and funding it myself.

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

I’m doing a grassroots campaign on a shoestring budget and funding it myself.

What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? None, having considered running for council previously I decided to finally give it a go.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

I am directing my preferences to Phillip Danh as he is also against the privatisation of council services. This is a key issue for me as my ageing parents also live locally and I want to know they and all older residents will be able to receive the quality support they need and deserve.

TEVYN KENNETH GOV Suburb of residence: Keysborough How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?: About 20 years Political party (past or present): Currently I’m happily r e p r e senting Victorian Socialists, the only political party I’ve been part of and believe in.

Occupation, business/employer name: I’m a worker in Coles Services Property interests: Mortgage in the Western suburbs Business interests: None Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

Address extraordinary cost of living concerns of Greater Dandenong residences Denounce the massacre of Palestinians and Gazans as well as their ethnic cleansing in Gaza and the West Bank. Standing in solidarity with Palestine against imperialism Build campaigns raising the power & voice of working class people and migrants Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): I’ve helped campaign for Kelly Cvetkova, our previous Victorian Socialists candidate for the Mulgrave by elections. Letterboxing and attending to campaign stalls. I’ve spoken to voters about their concerns during the Mul-

· · ·

grave by election and take their concerns with me to this council election.

Why are you standing for election?

I’m standing for council because like many, I’m fed up with the major parties of Labor and Liberal putting big business and privatisation ahead of the NEEDS of people. As a worker, I’ve felt the cost of living eat into my wallet more and more everyday as Labor defends rising interest rates, putting more and more pressure on working people and migrants. Childcare needs to be more available, and we need financial support for GD residents/renters facing hardships in these unprecedented times. Only a socialist can hold the major parties in check in the council. We need a shake up and Victorian Socialists can do just that for you.

What is your campaign budget?

Not really in consideration at the moment, but not much.

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

Victorian Socialists covered the nomination fee for my candidacy, otherwise no other donors.

What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

None Who will you direct your preferences to?

If I had to choose, the Greens candidate

FOCUS ON … DISABILITY

Cooking lessons for all fry for our first week. Everyone was shown how to prepare ingredients safely. All ingredients were ‘taste tested’ first, giving everyone an insight into what the ingredients would taste like when added. The wraps were quick to make, cheap, tasty, and healthy.

Cooking groups can be a social experience with one other participant. It is also therapeutic and a great way to learn how to eat healthier and purchase ingredients on a budget. We also offer private cooking sessions if preferred.

Unfortunately, we have limited spots for the cooking groups, so if you are interested, please call us or contact supportembraceconnect. com.au

12633268-JB37-23

We have started our cooking groups at SEC. The cooking groups are facilitated on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with another day available for one-on-one cooking with Roger.

The spacious venue has a well-equipped kitchen that allows all participants to be creative as each cooking group prepares and cooks two recipes.

Roger facilitates the cooking groups. Roger worked as a chef in the UK for a few years before moving to Australia. His passion has always been cooking, preparing meals, and creating recipes.

Our participants prepared Mediterranean chicken wraps, and Udon noodle chicken stir

Limited spots are still available for the SEC cooking groups. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 11

NEWS

Meet the candidates...

Home Care services.

PHILLIP DANH Suburb of residence: Noble Park How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? My entire life, I am very grateful to have lived in our community.

Political party (past or present): Not endorsed by any party. Proud Labor values and member since I was 17.

Occupation, business/employer name: I am currently completing a Law degree at Monash University. I have previously worked in community engagement and administration including with various local electorate offices.

Property interests: Nil Business interests: Nil Three most important issues for your ward: Privatisation must stop! I will lead the fight against plans to privatise council Aged and

services to improve both their futures and local community safety.

Local community groups, sporting clubs and volunteers need more support.

Describe your involvement in the local community: I’m grateful to have lived in our community my whole life and have been involved in sporting clubs. Working with State and Federal Government electorate offices I’ve helped hundreds of people resolve problems with Government. I was raised with values of fairness, equality, community service and hard work, and have served as President of the local Labor team.

Why are you standing for election?

Privatisation of Council services must stop!

I’m a leading voice in the fight against plans to

SAM AFRA Suburb of residence: 3174 How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? I have lived and worked locally for over 30 years Political party (past or present): ALP Occupation, business/employer name: Self Employed, State Government Board Director Property interests: N/A Business interests: Yours In Partnership Consultancy Solutions is the name of my business Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

Youth and Seniors active programs.

Treating community as an equal partner in the decision-making process.

Budget transparency.

Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): Since 1993, I am actively involved with the community, I am a Social Justice advocate.

Being an elected Councillor, Board member/Director Community and not-for-profit organisations, working for state government, chair of peak organisations representing not just ethnic communities but also the wider Australian community.

Why are you standing for election?

The current situation with Council that is not addressing the real needs of the community, I believe as an experienced and committed local candidate that I can make a difference, many Councillors have been there for a while and you need different approach and new ideas.

What is your campaign budget?

Very modest Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

None, it is a self-funded at the moment What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

None Who will you direct your preferences to?

Not considered yet and that is my least concern

RAHIMA RIZAI Suburb of residence: Dandenong How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? 13 years Political party (past or present): N/A Occupation, business/employer name: I work as a Community Hub Leader at Dandenong West Primary School Property interests: N/A Business interests: N/A Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

Local businesses need support to build up.

Environmental issues such as parks and better roads plus safety standards for residents Not many opportunities / jobs for young people.

Low standard services for our local senior citizens Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less):

I have been working as a community leader at the local school for nearly 5 years and have been working closely with the residents of Yarrraman. I raised my children in the area and running a family bussines. I am activly communicating and advocating to take action against the issues and needs of yarrraman residents.

Why are you standing for election?

I have lived and worked in the area for many years and have a good understanding about the needs and issues of our community. I feel I will be a great advocate for the Yarraman community. I m young and creative so will bring new ideas and inspiration for our community.

What is your campaign budget?

There is not set budget Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

N/A What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

N/A Who will you direct your preferences to?

N/A

·

· · ·

· · · ·

engagement is a serious concern for · Youth our neighbourhood. Council must provide

·

privatise Council Home and Aged Care services for local seniors. Too many councillors have held their position for decades and no longer work hard enough for everyone. It’s time for a fresh approach for our local community and I’ll bring new energy and real commitment.

The Council should be working harder to support local businesses and attract new investment, to create more local jobs for the future. I’ll work to re-focus the Council on basic services – like rubbish cleanup, road repairs, street lighting and graffiti removal in Noble Park and Dandenong West. I’ll also champion more funding for local sporting clubs and grants to help volunteer groups.

What is your campaign budget?

I don’t actually know yet as I’m still asking friends, locals and people I’ve worked with for small donations. I hope to have a few thousand dollars to print leaflets which volunteers are distributing.

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

Family, friends, former workmates are chipping in what they can afford. I’ll fully declare everything as required by law.

What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

Former Mayor and Living Treasure of the City of Greater Dandenong, Roz Blades AM has been a wonderful advisor and inspiration along with former Mayor and Yarraman Ward Councillor Eden Foster. I’ve also tried to reach out to as many local Councillors and MPs as possible to get advice but am ultimately running my own campaign.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

I’m running to win so hopefully my preferences won’t be distributed. I’m still getting to know the other Candidates and will publish my How to Vote card soon.

MELINDA YIM Suburb of residence: Noble Park.

How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? 27 years, 28 in September.

Political party (past or present): No party past or present.

Occupation, business/employer name: Quality Assurance Associate at a Pharmaceutical in Dandenong South.

Property interests: A property in Keysborough.

Business interests: None.

Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

A safer community with less crime, with cleaner and greener streets. Upgrading our facilities to have more and better accessibility for our elderly and disabled community members. Equal and more opportunities for all community members. I will endeavour to do my best to improve our ward and community.

Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): I have volunteered and assisted with a local Buddhist community doing transla-

tion work. Although my involvement is not as extensive, I am going to involve myself more in the community. I hope to become a council member that is actively involved in our community.

Why are you standing for election?

I think it would be a great opportunity to bring a new younger perspective to the council. I hope to bring effective change for our community for old, young, disabled and able-bodied community members.

What is your campaign budget?

No budget at the moment.

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

No donors at present.

What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

No advice or assistance at present but welcome to any.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

I would please like to asks voters to give me their first preference, vote [1] for Melinda Yim. I am not sure yet about my other preferences as I’ve only briefly met two other candidates. Would love to speak to other candidates to better understand what they stand for and know them.

ROBERT LIM Suburb of residence: Noble Park How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? I’m 24, so... 24.

Political party (past or present): Australian Greens (Victoria) Occupation, business/employer name: Software Developer, eSuperfund Property interests: None Business interests: None Three most important issues for your ward (in 50 words or less)?

Keeping community services affordable and quality - libraries, youth services, kindergartens, and aged care.

Usable, safe, and convenient bus and bike routes. They are hard to rely on for daily use.

Newer developments take up a lot of on-

street parking space. They should be focused close to train stations.

Describe your involvement in the local community (in 50 words or less): Why are you standing for election?

I want to represent people and solve real issues. I don’t play the political game, so I can authentically do this.

What is your campaign budget? $600.

Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?

I’m 100% funded by the Greens.

What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?

Matthew Kirwan has been a great help in understanding the electorate and its issues.

Who will you direct your preferences to?

I’m not too sure yet. I’m still trying to figure out who shares my values.

The following candidates did not submit survey responses: ABEYSINGHE, Susantha,

BROWN, Peter and BILLINGS, Will.

ALP saturates Yarraman by-election Labor members appear to have dominated the list of 13 candidates for the upcoming Yarraman Ward by-election.

The candidates, in ballot paper order, are: RIZAI, Rahima LIM, Robert HAYDAR BIG, Zahra ABEYSINGHE, Susantha AFRA, Sam 12 STAR JOURNAL

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YIM, Melinda BROWN, Peter BRYANT, Alexandra GOV, Tevyn SHUKRI, Ahmed DANH, Phillip BILLINGS, Will YIM, Thay-Horn The ALP-affiliated candidates are believed

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

to number up to five including Phillip Danh, Zahra Haydar Big, Thay-Horn Yim, Sam Affra and Alexandra Bryant.

Ahmed Shukri and Greater Dandenong exmayor Peter Brown are former ALP members and running as independents.

Several ran in the 2020 council elections, including Will Billings and Labor candidates Yim, Shukri, Afra and Danh.

The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC)

will send ballot packs to all voters who were correctly enrolled for Yarraman Ward by the close of roll. Voting closes at 6 pm on Friday 8 March. Election Manager Jenni Colgan said voters should vote as soon as possible. “Post or hand deliver your completed ballot pack by the deadline to make your vote count,“ Ms Colgan said. “Your local mail might be picked up earlier than 6 pm, so don’t leave it to the last minute.“ dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

No ‘last post’ for child care

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A long-closed kindergarten site should be revived by Greater Dandenong Council for a not-for-profit child care service, Yarraman Ward by-election candidate Peter Brown says.

The spacious ex-facility on Joffre Street, Noble Park was shut down in 2018 when the kindergarten moved to Yarraman Oaks Primary School.

Brown, a former mayor who last served as a councillor in 2019-‘20, says this move was a “cost-saving” measure by the council at the time.

He recalls a council proposal to put the site “on the market” if a future use couldn’t be found.

Brown says instead it could be an affordable, not-for-profit kindergarten or child care service provided by the council.

Potentially there could be a partnership with Chisholm Institute to tie it in as a training centre, he said.

“It’s in very good condition. You don’t need to spend money for it to be fit-for-purpose.”

As the site seemingly sits idle, Brown found the site’s letterbox crammed with uncollected mail.

Some of it was private and confidential and dating back to 2022, he says.

“Clearly no one from Council is checking the mail, which is a bad sign of neglect.”

Greater Dandenong community strengthening acting director Marcus Forster said the site is used for internal council programs.

“Council is currently assessing the future needs for kindergarten and childcare services in this area.

“The outcome of this assessment will determine the future of the site.

“We will increase visits to the site to ensure

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Peter Brown clutching uncollected mail at the former kindergarten in Joffre Street, Noble Park. 387906 mail is regularly removed.”

Meanwhile, Brown remains opposed to the sale of Sandown racecourse with a suburb of 7500 dwellings and 16,000 residents.

However as a member of the track’s owner Melbourne Racing Club, he’d be unable to vote on the issue at Council due to a conflict of interest.

Otherwise, the former ALP member is standing as an ‘independent’ on a ‘green’ platform.

The experienced councillor made headlines after he was controversially ruled out of

the 2020 council elections due to his name being deleted from the electoral roll.

“This time I got a certificate from the (council) CEO as soon as (former Yarraman Ward councillor) Eden Foster resigned to make sure I was on the roll.”

Other key issues for Brown include community safety in Hemmings Street and Hemmings Park.

Brown also backs mayor Lana Formoso’s campaign for a safe pedestrian crossing on Stud Road opposite Dandenong Stadium – a notorious ‘black spot’ where a toddler was killed in December.

A year ago, a traffic-light crossing was identified as the council’s No.1 priority for road safety projects. And has been ‘shovel ready’ for several years but been awaiting State Government funding, according to Cr Formoso.

“The council should have more clout with the local MPs because of their close associations. I can’t understand why it hasn’t happened.

“The council should throw enough money for it in the June budget and say we’ll pay for it ourselves and save the ratepayers’ lives.

“Or ask for the State Government to come to the party and pay 50 per cent.”

Rare Liberal MP remembered for dedication Eumemmerring Province ex-MP Ron Wells has been remembered in State Parliament last week.

Dr Wells, who served in the upper house seat as its first ever Liberal MP from 1992-’99, died on 2 January.

Nepean MP Sam Groth paid tribute to Dr Wells, also a veterinary medical researcher and university teacher as well as Dromana MP from 1985-’92.

“Dr Wells was thought well of by his parliamentary colleagues, and he was known for his attention to examining the details of legislation in the interests of his constituents.

“They described him as a calm, intelligent and a dedicated local member.”

Mr Groth read from Dr Wells’ maiden speech to Parliament in 1985.

“Time is short. The next decade will show whether we Victorians have the common

sense, the wit and the wisdom to really grasp these two great truths and commit ourselves to them: sell more product; educate every Victorian.”

Dr Wells visited Dandenong Market with Star Journal in 2015, marvelling at its reconstruction, its comfort and array of foods and cultures.

“Dandenong is a wonderful place,” he said. “It’s looking bigger and better now.”

He said he always knew Dandenong was much more important than its size indicated.

“It is like a miniature Australia. When I was elected to Eumemmerring, I said: as Eumemmerring goes, so Australia will go.”

“In a growing society there are huge welfare needs that are difficult to meet.

“It’s always about economic management. You’ve got to have people who understand the economy in charge.”

Former MP for Eumemmerring Ron Wells returns to Dandenong in 2015. 142476 Picture: ROB CAREW

'Elmo's Circus Dream' is coming to Bunjil Place, Narre Warren!

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 13

WHAT’S ON son Community Centre, Halton Road, Noble Park North; $5 per session. No registrations required. Details: 8571 1436 or communityfacilities@cgd.vic.gov.au

TextaQueen workshop TextaQueen’s series We Don’t Need Another Hero - as featured at Walker Street Gallery posed First Nations and other people of colour in movie poster portraits battling the apocalypses of colonialism. In this workshop you’ll develop your own poster design to battle the oppressions that you face in the world, taking design inspiration from vintage movie posters.

Wednesday 14 February, 7pm-8pm livestreamed online via Zoom. You require A4 or larger white paper, textas or other drawing tools. Free workshop. Registrations required at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/we-dont-need-another-hero-textaqueen

Open Air Movies The next film of Greater Dandenong’s Open Air Movies series features recent adventure/comedy hit film The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023).

Bring your own chairs, blankets and picnics.

Friday 16 February, 7pm-9pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandeno

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Year of the Dragon This exciting day of free family-friendly fun will showcase the best street food from Southeast Asia and stunning performances such as the awe-inspiring lion dance.

Sunday 18 February, 11am-3pm at Dandenong Market, cnr Clow and Cleeland streets, Dandenong. Free event, cost applies to food and drinks.

Summertime Awareness Art Circle Awakening In all cultures, summer is a season that can bring us hope and optimism for a joyful future.

Coming together in our art circle provides us with an opportunity to cultivate present moment awareness and awaken us to new possibilities and growth.

Monday 19 February 10.30am–12.30pm (group cuppa 10am) at The Open Door, 110

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New members from Dandenong North and Noble Park are sought by the Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club. In addition to other activities, club members also meet for coffee & listen to a guest speaker. last Tuesday of the month 9.45am-noon at Southern Community Centre, 27 Rupert Dr, Mulgrave (near Police Rd). Details: Don, 9560 6046.

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Meditation and positive thinking

Maralinga Community Garden open mornings During February the Maralinga Community Garden will be open every Saturday in celebration of Sustainability month and the Greater Dandneong Sustainability Festival at the Dandenong Market on Sunday 25 February. Come and view our garden, our chemical free produce, enquire about bed hire, and view our eclectic collection of nature items.

February 17 and 24, 8.30am-10am at Chandler Reserve, 327 Chandler Road Keysborough. Parking on Maralinga Avenue. Details: Bryan, 0409 003 652 or bryan.hunter@education.vic.gov.au. Free event.

Fun for retirees

Ann Street, Dandenong. Suggested donation: $10. Bookings essential: 9791 8664 or Theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

Senior activities Keysborough & District Multicultural Senior Citizens Inc is an over 55s club with bingo on first, second and fourth Tuesday of the month ($3 entry and $1.50 per bingo book), live concerts with professional entertainers on third Tuesday of the month, line dancing on Wednesdays ($3 entry), Thursday ballroom dancing lessons (12.30pm-1pm) and ballroom dancing (1pm3pm, $3 entry). Concert entertainers include Alex Matthews (20 February) and Col Perkins (3 March).

1pm-3pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Rowley Allan Reserve 352 Cheltenham Road Keysborough. Tea and coffee provided. Membership for remainder of F/Y 23/24 is $5. Details: Julie, 0428 561 694.

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The Open Door workshops Welcome to The Open Door, a centre for creative spirituality without fear or judgement. We run a variety of weekly workshops - open to all: Tai Chi / Gentle Movement Meditation (Mondays 2pm-2.20pm), Awareness Meditation (Mondays 2.30pm-3.30pm), Centering Prayer Meditation (Tuesdays 2.30pm-3.30pm), Art of Soul (Wednesdays 11.30am-1.30pm) and Guided Imagery Meditation (Wednesdays 2.30pm-3pm).

We also run monthly workshops, including Line Dancing – Thursday 15 February 10.30am-

11.30am (First & third Thursday of month).

Question the Space Enjoy works by artists Rachel Burke, Ross Coulter, Jordan Fleming, Guerrilla Girls, Melbourne Art Library, Kent Morris, Dean Norton, Tina Patlas, Kenny Pittock, Nick Selenitsch and TextaQueen. Artwork locations include Walker Street Gallery and various venues around central Dandenong. until Friday 1 March at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong (open Tuesday-Friday, 12pm-4pm).

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Yesteryear: A Glimpse into Greater Dandenong’s Past This exhibition explores our region’s changing landscape and rich historical narratives through selected artworks, images and objects from Council’s Civic and Cultural Heritage Collection and local historical society collections.

Open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 10am to 2pm (until 1 March) at Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Free event.

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Adult Exercise Improve fitness and energy levels for good health and wellbeing at this adult exercise group class on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a self-paced, gentle aerobics class suitable for all levels.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9.30am at Jan Wil-

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Learn how to make your mind your best friend through open-eyed meditation. Led by Bhavani Padmanabhan, these free sessions are open to all. Presented by Bakhtar Community Organisation and The Brahma Kumaris Organisation.

Saturdays 2pm at 23-47 Gunns Road, Hallam. Registrations: 9703 2555 or 0403 551 596.

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Weekly badminton Adults welcome (Mondays 7pm-9pm) and ladies and retired (Wednesdays 12pm-2.30pm).

Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

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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

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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

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NEWS

An electrifying tribute to musical majesty and timeless hits

WIN

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14 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

Hafekasi: A short review

By Ethan Benedicto With a run time of roughly 16 minutes, Hafekasi was able to deliver a powerful performance with messages of identity, personal growth and deep-rooted discrimination.

Directed by Annelise Hickey, the film features Mona, a young half-Tongan girl and her white Australian mother, and has won multiple awards since its screening, such as the Tribeca 2023 Best Narrative Short Special Jury Mention and the MIFF 2023 Award for Emerging Australian Filmmaker.

Other awards include the BIFF 2023 Award for Best Global Short Film and the SCAD Savannah Film Festival 2023 Award for Best Global Short Film: Beyond Identity.

When it comes to shining light on issues such as that of identity around race and discrimination, Ms Hickey agreed that films can serve as effective mediums.

“I definitely think that through film and stories or television, they’re a good way to express how different people live in the same country.

“Films are a good way to explore, and for us to fall in love with characters and see things from a different point of view.

“People don’t like being called out and it’s hard to do through art, but it’s still a way,” Ms Hickey said.

Delving deep into the crises of finding oneself as a child, the film uses multiple methods to convey the message, through the vibrant colour palette reminiscent of 90s Australia, the use of sound and noises, and the shaky cam whose movement mirrored Mona’s feelings.

The narrative is smooth and the story of

Annelise Hickey (middle), speaking to the audience during the Q&A session before the screening.

Picture: ETHAN BENEDICTO Mona, played by Izabelle Tokava, effectively encapsulates how a young girl grapples with who she really is, through familial interactions, through strangers and her own actions.

Nothing is forced, not through the hands of Ms Hickey as director or through the character of the mum, who is played by Laura Gordon.

Throughout the film Mona is left to her own devices, the mother allows space for her child to experience growth herself and never intrudes or directs Mona’s feelings.

Validation, comfort and peace are what embodied the actions of the mother, and is what allowed for Mona, though through a rebellious act, to discover and take the first step into the world of Tongan culture.

The film unfolds softly on the audience, making itself clear of its direction and most of all, is a stellar representation of showing instead of telling. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

BUSINESS PROFILE

Roll up to Elmo’s circus Step right up and join the spectacle of Elmo’s Circus Dream tour coming to Narre Warren.

This thrilling theatre show takes you on an enchanting journey with Elmo and your Sesame Street favourites as they discover their hidden talents and dreams at the circus.

Get ready to be entertained by their amazing acts, catchy songs, and heart-warming moments that will leave you smiling from ear to ear.

It all begins with Elmo’s enchanting bedtime story about the circus.

As Elmo falls asleep, he is magically transported to his dreamtime circus where he is warmly greeted by his friends Abby, Cookie Monster, Grover, Bert, and Ernie.

The show bursts into high energy as the talented cast sings and dances to the iconic Sesame Street theme song, but with a twist -they are embarking on an exciting adventure to the circus.

With their vibrant costumes and catchy tunes, they express their deep desire to join the circus and become part of its magical experience.

From hilarious clowning and daring stunt attempts to mesmerizing dog acts and captivating dance routines, the stage comes alive with their boundless energy, skill, and infectious enthusiasm.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Brace yourself as internationally renowned circus performers take the stage, showcasing their extraordinary talents.

Prepare to be spellbound by their impressive acrobatic displays, jaw dropping juggling acts, and mind-bending illusions that will leave you in awe at their incredible feats.

Elmo’s Circus Dream is more than just a show – it’s an immersive experience that ignites the imaginations of children, encourages selfexpression and teaches valuable life lessons in a fun and engaging way.

Elmo joins a spectacular circus show coming to Bunjil Place this month.

Get ready to be dazzled as the magic of the circus unfolds before your eyes, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a renewed

belief in the power of dreams.

Elmo’s Circus Dream is at Bunjil Place Theatre, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren

on Saturday 24 February 10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm and Sunday 25 February 10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm. Bookings: bunjilplace.com.au

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 15

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• After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

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16 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Trades & Services

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS AND VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G Existing Monopole, Charles Green Reserve, 115-135T James Cook Drive, Endeavour Hills VIC 3802 Site Ref: M1322 / JM9510, www.rfnsa.com.au/3802002 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: r Recovery of three (3) existing panel antennas (2.53m long) r Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (2.1m long) r New ancillary equipment including one (1) GPS antenna and cabling r Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter r The monopole is 18.5 metres high, and the antennas are proposed to be mounted at the top of the pole

2. Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (Amendment No.1, 2021) based on the description above.

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V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE 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.

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Thirsty for success Buckley in

contention after chase

By Marcus Uhe Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) heavyweights Springvale South has added more silverware to its trophy cabinet at Alex Nelson Reserve after securing the DDCA’s T20 competition on Sunday.

After defeating North Dandenong by six wickets in a semi-final earlier in the day at Wilson Oval, the Bloods then turned their attention to Turf 2 side, Heinz Southern Districts in the decider, keeping the Cobras to 6/140 in pursuit of 179.

Fittingly, it was Brett Forsyth that led the charge for the Bloods, with scores of 65 in the semi final and 87 on a Shepley Oval pitch that he knows better than most.

He and Jordan Wyatt enjoyed a 143-run opening stand in the decider that set the game up for the reigning back-to-back Turf 1 champions in an entertaining display of stroke-play.

Forsyth mixed conventional cricket strokes with innovative paddles and lap-sweeps, his knowledge of the ground’s dimensions and long straight boundaries coming to the fore as Wyatt showcased his power hitting.

Wyatt was given a life through a missed stumping on 38, and a dropped catch on the boundary that resulted in a six on 62, in a manof-the-match innings of 78 off 49 deliveries.

After reaching his half-century he looked to lift the tempo, short square boundaries in the firing line particularly off the spin of HSD’s marquee, Jonathan D’Rozario.

The aggression slowed after he was bowled attempting a switch-hit, with Ryan Quick and Blade Baxter not spending long at the crease in their respective innings.

Forsyth was dismissed on the second last ball of the innings, having given his side the ultimate platform.

Leg-spinner Omair Rana was the pick of the HSD bowlers with 1/13 off his three, with the unused fourth over looking like a missed opportunity in hindsight.

HSD opening pair Mackenzie Gardner and Brent Patterson made an impressive start to the chase in a 74-run opening stand.

The heat of the afternoon and the fatigue of

By Marcus Uhe

Springvale South celebrate winning the DDCA’s T20 competition. 388407 a second game in one day appeared to hamper Patterson early in the innings and he began to cramp.

The two managed to find sporadic boundaries in the face of an experienced and dangerous bowling attack to the delight of a strident HSD supporter base in the Frank Storan Grandstand.

Jackson Sketcher provided the breakthrough in the 10th over, Patterson skying a ball to the square leg boundary before it fell into the awaiting hands of Liam Hamilton in front of the HSD dugout.

The Bloods went back to Jarryd Straker in the next over, the short square boundary proving too tempting for Triyan De Silva as Hamilton repeated the dose in the field.

When Gardner fell to Jordan Mackenzie’s part-time spin, it was three wickets in three overs for Springvale South, which completely seized the momentum.

Richmond’s D’Rozario showed the strokeplay and class you would expect from a Victorian Premier Cricketer as he took the fight to a handful of the Bloods’ attack, but he lacked contributions from the remainder of his side.

When he departed after skying a catch to Wyatt in the 17th over, the contest was as good

Picture: MARCUS UHE

as over.

Josh Dowling finished as the only multiple wicket taker for the champions with 2/27 as the Cobras eventually fell 39 runs short of the total.

HSD qualified for the decider thanks to a nine-wicket thrashing of St Mary’s in the day’s opening contest.

Regular wickets fell in the Saints’ first innings as the Turf 2 side showed they were up to the challenge of tackling a side in a higher division.

St Mary’s fell to 5/42 as none of the top order fired, the dangerous Saveen Nanayyakara only managing 16 as they were bowled out for 121.

HSD used just five bowlers, spearheaded by D’Rozario’s 2/25 and Liam Jansen’s 2/20.

Gardner and D’Rozario then shared in a 96run stand to wipe the majority of the 122-run target, Gardner reaching 61.

Forsyth’s unbeaten 65 in the semi-final ensured the Bloods’ chase of 147 was never in doubt against North Dandenong, after Clayton McCartney dug his side out of trouble in the first innings.

McCartney hit 45 after his side slumped to 4/18 before lusty hitting from Sushant Gupta helped give them something to defend.

Winless start for Dandenong NPL clubs

By Marcus Uhe A rare indirect free-kick awarded in secondhalf stoppage time against new Dandenong Thunder goalkeeper Pierce Clark resulted in round-one heartbreak for Adam Piddick’s side in the opening round of the Men’s Victorian National Premier League against Hume City.

Clark was penalised for picking the ball up after a Thunder defender passed the ball back to him, with an opponent closing in to encroach his space in the 93rd minute.

Thunder players lined the goal-line and built a wall for their opponents to navigate, but it wasn’t enough to stop a thunderbolt from Lloyd Isgrove rocketing into the top right corner in the fifth and final minute of added time.

Dandenong had a chance to equalise with one of the match’s final acts, but a header from Jordan Smylie went wide of the goal face, consigning Thunder to dropping early season points at home in a 2-1 loss.

Thunder took a 1-0 lead into the break, despite the visitors doing more of the attacking in the first 45 minutes, courtesy of a savvy piece of play in the 24th minute from a recruit in his first game in Thunder red and black.

Wade Dekker swooped on an errant backwards pass from a Hume defender to his goalkeeper, and finished with his right foot, having navigated the ‘keeper with a first touch.

Hume City equalised shortly after the interval, an attacking opportunity presenting itself after an errant clearance from Mersim Memeti in the centre of defence.

Memeti’s attempt to relieve the pressure did the complete opposite, as a Hume midfielder was able to play Aamir Abdallah for a one-onone with new Thunder shot-stopper Clark.

Clark managed to get a finger on the shot, but Abdallah’s left foot strike was too strong, levelling the scores in the 48th minute.

Neither side managed to break the dead18 STAR JOURNAL

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Dandenong City’s Brady Quinn dribbles against Avondale on Saturday in City’s 4-3 loss.

Picture: SUPPLIED lock for the remainder of the half until Clark’s error in the dying stages saw Hume City execute perfectly from the set piece.

Thunder next face Manningham United in Templestowe on Saturday afternoon.

Dandenong City also came up short in its first contest since returning to the competition’s top division, losing 4-3 to defending premiers Avondale at Avenger Park.

City Manager Nick Tolios, ahead of the season kicking-off, expected plenty of goals when City took to the pitch and early indications are that his expectations are right on the money.

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

Avondale opened the scoring from the spot in the 13th minute after defender Michael Matrinovic brought down an opponent in the box.

A long strike from Cian Cuba then doubled the advantage, shooting from outside the area and catching the City defence unaware.

Recruit Tom Giannokopoulos pegged one back in first half stoppage time, pouncing on a loose ball in the penalty area with a lethal volley after a corner, to half the deficit at the break.

Giannokopoulos was then caught out in the course of the home side’s third goal, losing his feet in a desperate challenge to stop Stefan Zinni in a one-on-one, before the attacker slid the ball past John Hall in the 66th minute.

City was forced to call on the never say die spirit that came to define them on their way to the division two championship in 2023, with their backs against the wall in the opening contest.

A successful counter attack from the home side in the 80th minute then made the assignment even more difficult, as they bagged a fourth despite Hall’s touch on the way through.

New signing Kyan Bryant responded almost immediately in a quick play from the resulting kick off, firing a shot at the near post on a tight angle to beat the opposition keeper.

Substitute Tim Atherinos then provided the goal of the afternoon in the 89th minute, with a curling long bomb over the outstretched arm of the leaping keeper, cutting the margin to just one.

City continued to press in the final stages of both regular and stoppage time in an admirable performance but was unable to find the final goal it required to pinch any points from the contest.

City will play its first home match of the campaign on Friday night against Altona Magic.

Buckley Ridges has roared back into finals contention after reeling in Springvale South’s monster total of 361 at Park Oval on Saturday.

The Bucks got contributions from every batter that took to the crease, led by opener Josh Holden’s 100 in his first Turf 1 contest of the season.

Holden put on 157 with Jake Cronin (66) for the opening wicket to lay the foundations for the chase in the opening session.

Ben Wright and Roshane Silva joined the opening combination in notching important half-centuries before a late cameo of boundaries from Ishan Jayarathna wrapped-up the task in the 75th over.

Jarryd Straker claimed 2/103 as the Bloods’ only multiple wicket taker but was far more expensive than usual, the victim of multiple sixes from Holden as his economy nearly reached six runs per over.

The win sees Buckley climb back into fourth place with huge fixtures against fellow potential finalists Berwick and Narre South to come.

The Bears and the Lions played out a cliffhanger at Strathaird Reserve, where Berwick fell agonisingly shy of Narre South’s 344.

Jake Hancock’s unbeaten 135 carried the visitors to 8/339, with a stoic final over from Callan Tout holding them at bay.

From five wickets down at the tea break, needing just shy of 200 more runs from the final session, the Bears, led by Hancock and Toby Wills’ 62, gave the undermanned Lions a fright, having lost Callum Nicholls to a shoulder injury in the field and with skipper Kyle Hardy leaving the match to attend a personal commitment midway through the fielding innings.

Jeevan Mendis orchestrated the defence in Hardy’s absence, while bowling 33 of the 80 overs, taking the crucial wickets of Matthew Hague, Jordan Cleland and Jarrod Goodes along the way.

A collapse of 4/16 shortly before tea will haunt the Bears as Cleland, Mitch Shirt and Ash Henry combined for just five runs.

Narre South slot into third place on the table with 40 points but face Buckley Ridges and Springvale South in the run home, without their star batter in Nicholls. Hallam Kalora Park did what it needed to do in securing six points against North Dandenong, having completed the short run chase early in the day.

The Hawks reached the total four down but missed on vital centre wicket practice after the middle order failed to take opportunities.

Left-arm quick Randeep Sahota took four wickets in four overs to decimate the middle order, but withstanding the chaos at the other end was wicketkeeper-batter Ciaron Connolly.

In a new role at the top of the order, Connolly batted for nearly the duration of the innings to make 96, before hitting a Ramneet Dhindsa full toss down the throat of Sudes Khan on the legside boundary.

The Hawks are fifth on the table, tied with Buckley Ridges on points with 39.

Elsewhere, St Mary’s claimed a breakthrough win of the season against Beaconsfield, chasing 274 in the 78th over seven wickets down.

The win franks a return to competitiveness since the Christmas break, despite a disaster the week before against Narre South. Trishane De Silva, Mark Cooper and Ashan Madhushanka each took two wickets for Beaconsfield. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Shock surprise for Siwes

By Jonty Ralphsmith Narre Warren Football Club and Dandenong West Cricket Club held a joint testimonial for Greg Siwes last Saturday night at Kalora Park.

A passionate and smart hard worker who has aided the plight of several clubs and countless players in the south eastern region, Siwes is currently entrenched in both clubs.

At Dandy West, he serves as vice-president while he assists reserves coach Jamie Brown at Narre.

The event was attended by more than 100 people who shared anecdotes, laughs and appreciation for his commitment to local sport across the past 30 years.

Siwes was unaware the event was being held, lured to the club under the pretence of a plumbing issue that needed to be addressed on the way to nice dinner with wife Vanessa, following a day of toil in the sun for Dandy West’s Second XI. “It was a bit strange I thought; everyone left the rooms really quickly after the game,” Siwes reflected.

“One of the blokes hung around and we had a few beers but we were the only two here so I thought ‘what’s going on?

“I went home and had a swim in the backyard pool and my wife was on to me about getting ready and I turned up and wow.

“When you walk in and people are taking photos you go ‘wow’ – it’s only later on you realise what’s going on.

“It’s been a good journey and the common denominator is that I’m a competitive person in whatever sport I play and I can’t help that, that’s just the way I am, and I’ll continue to be competitive in whatever I do.”

Dandenong West president Peter Lindsay emceed the event, and spoke to Star News about the significant role Siwes has played in the cricket club.

“He was a leader in many ways both on and off the field,” Lindsay said.

“Once he crossed the line from a game point-of-view, he never wanted to be beaten, and off the field, he was able to gel the club together.

“Even now, he’s thinking about different players and what he sees in them and he’s only too willing to pass on any of those opinions to our current leaders.

Greg Siwes poses with his extensive trophy collection, on show during the evening. 387581 “There’s always a game plan even if he’s watching.”

As a player, he was a key piece of the Bulls’ dominance around the turn of the century, and his presence is still being felt now, after he reinvigorated the club’s junior program a decade ago.

Son, Riley, is a staple of the Dandenong West First XI, alongside Bailey Howarth and Nathan Power, while Dylan Diacono was an important player last season.

From a footballing perspective, he was a fine on-baller during Narre’s success in the early 1990s and has a reputation as being a student of the game.

Picture: JONTY RALPHSMITH

He has coached Noble Park’s reserves to a premiership and Devon Meadows to its most recent grand final appearance.

But the widely held belief is that his greatest performance as a mentor was winning the 2008 preliminary against Pakenham, to that point undefeated all season, as coach of Keysborough.

“He exposed their weaknesses,” said former Narre president Stuart Stephenson, who has known Siwes since the 1970s.

“He had seven or eight really good players and maximised them.

“He really thought through it, was so pre-

pared, and would know the metreage of every ground so he could set the game up to suit his team “Narre won the grand final the next week but to get that Keysborough team, which was pretty average, to the grand final was, I think, his best coaching performance.”

After playing juniors at Lyndale, Siwes has been involved in the following football clubs: Dandenong, Kerang, Narre, Devon Meadows, Noble Park, Pearcedale and Keysborough.

Following a stint at Silverton, Siwes has played 230 games at the Bulls, scoring a clubhigh 6149 runs including eight centuries, to go with his 120 wickets.

Pirates in a predicament as Eagles state their case

By Jonty Ralphsmith The top four in the Dandenong District Cricket Association Turf 2 competition looks set following the weekend’s results.

In Turf 2, Cranbourne recorded an outright win over Lyndale to cement its place in the top four, while Parkmore’s surprise loss to Keysborough has made it decidedly difficult for the Pirates to sneak into finals.

Cranbourne arrived at Casey Fields on Saturday 38 runs in arrears with five wickets in hand, and were able to knock off the total quickly, reach a lead of 42 and then bowl the Dales out for 91.

With 15 overs to chase 50 runs, Cranbourne won with eight in the shed and 18 balls remaining.

Parkmore, meanwhile, struggled for rhythm against a Keysborough side which has been more competitive since December, losing its last six wickets for 12 runs to go down by 47 runs.

After Kyle Gwynne looked to blunt the Knights attack on a hot day with 10 off 94, the only partnership which looked likely was that between the in-form Jaime Brohier and stand-in skipper Ammar Bajwa before tea, which supplied 51 runs.

Meanwhile, skipper Anthony Brannan and vice-captain Riley Siwes combined to maturely guide Dandenong West to a comfortable win over Heinz Southern Districts, affirming the Bulls’ premiership favouritism.

Parkfield, meanwhile, had an easy outright over Narre Warren, propelling it ahead of HSD to second on the table.

In Turf 3, Fountain Gate had a tense 16run win over Berwick Springs. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Chanaka ‘Ted’ Sampath celebrates one of his five breakthroughs. 388164

Malan Madusanka’s seven wickets led the way for Coomoora. 388165 Skipper Braydon Hillman, filling in at the top for absent brother Riley, looked to anchor the chase after the early wicket of Jackson Marie on day one, but had no-one to go with him, before he was eventually dismissed for a 138-ball 38.

Chanaka ‘Ted’ Sampath continued his strong season with the ball, ripping through the Titans lineup with 5/19 off 19 overs.

Lynbrook narrowly staved off the prospect of a reverse-outright against Hampton Park, getting home in the second innings

Picture: ROB CAREW

by two wickets.

Coomoora, meanwhile, made a statement against Doveton North at Power Reserve, bowling the hosts out for 45 and 44.

Led by seven wickets to Malan Madusanka, the Roos bowled 70 overs, with Doveton North kept to a run rate of just 1.27 across its two innings.

Silverton had an outright win over Doveton in the other game.

Turf 2 ladder: Dandenong West 58, Parkfield 55, Cranbourne 46, HSD 45, Parkmore 32,

Sajana De Silva helped Cranbourne to a top four-solidifying outright win. 388163 Lyndale 30, Narre Warren 21, Keysborough 21.

Turf 2 fixture: Parkfield v Keysborough, Narre Warren v Parkmore, Cranbourne v Dandenong West, HSD v Lyndale.

Turf 3 ladder: Coomoora 56, Lynbrook 55, Fountain Gate 53, Doveton North 50, Berwick Springs 43, Silverton 40, Doveton 18, Hampton Park 9.

Turf 3 fixture: Hampton Park v Berwick Springs, Lynbrook v Fountain Gate, Doveton North v Silverton, Coomoora v Doveton.

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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STAR JOURNAL 19

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

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