Poll shock moves
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
In a series of bombshell moves, I Cook Foods
owner Ian Cook and current mayor Lana Formoso’s husband and brother have entered the fray of the Greater Dandenong Council elections.
Cook – who is sueing the council and two officers for alleged malicious prosecution – will run against sitting councillor Phillip Danh in Yarraman Ward.
Meanwhile, Cr Formoso will re-contest her Noble Park North seat, her husband Daniel Formoso will oppose Dandenong North Ward incumbent councillor Bob Milkovic and her brother Sasha Jankovic will run in Keysborough South Ward.
Cr Formoso and Jankovic are Labor members, Daniel Formoso is a former member.
To the disappointment of some, the number of candidates are sharply down compared to the 2020 election.
Sitting ALP councillor Sophie Tan has been elected unopposed in Noble Park Ward - after the only other candidate Dy Truong withdrew from the race on the final day of nominations.
Former councillor Peter Brown is contesting the Keysborough Ward seat, vacated by Cr Tim Dark. Others in the running in the ward are ALP members - South East United football club president Sinan Akkurt, Daniel Dang, Hemara In, Reinaldo Pincheira - as well as Yarraman byelection candidates Melinda Yim and Tevyn Gov (Victorian Socialists)
In Cleeland Ward, two ALP members Pradeep Hewavitharana and Zahra Haydar Big have joined the contest. Sitting ALP councillor Angela
Long is defending her seat against Greens councillor Rhonda Garad, who has shifted from Keysborough South Ward.
Dandenong North Ward independent councillor Milkovic will be up against Daniel Formoso, Rosana Ierone, and ALP members Branka Tomic and Rhonda Tannous.
Five-time mayor and ALP candidate Jim Memeti will recontest Dandenong Ward. He is opposed by independent Rahima Rizai, who had run in the recent Yarraman by-election.
In Keysborough South, there is also no sitting councillor. The candidates are Labor members Alexandra Bryant, Ajdin Muzur and Sasha Jankovic, former councillor Geraldine Gonsalvez and Greens member Isabella Do.
Mayor Cr Formoso, in Noble Park North Ward,
will be against Karl Rathnayake, real estate agent Love Agravante and recent Yarraman by-election candidate Will Billings.
Springvale Central Ward is the seat of former deputy mayor Richard Lim, who had attempted to run in Springvale North but was declared ineligible. In the fray are real estate agent Alice Phuong Le, Victorian Socialists’ Sean Stebbings, architect/builder Minh Le, migration agent Meng Bunlay, Hor Truong and Brian Dalton.
Councillor Sean O’Reilly will be again up against 2020 independent candidate Angela Holl in Springvale North Ward, joined by candidate Huong Dinh.
Springvale South Ward councillor Loi Truong will vie for re-election. Other candidates are migration agent Thayhorn Yim, Andy Tran, Yen Thai, Maleb Hem and Lin Sok.
Andrei from Dandenong North pierced the air on one of the thrilling rides at the annual Doveton Show at Myuna Farm on Sunday 22 September. Packed with crowds, the volunteer-run show featured animals, showbags, foods, rides and a feast of other activities.
More pictures, turn to page 8 (Gary Sissons: 431626)
Low on council contenders
By Sahar Foladi
The nomination for next month’s Greater Dandenong Council elections has revealed a lower number of candidates compared to 2020.
Incumbent councillors Sean O’Reilly and Jim Memeti pointed out the considerably low number of candidates may be due to the increased cost of living as campaign funding can be costly.
Cr O’Reilly has counted a total of 45 candidates in this year’s run compared to 68 in 2020, a 34 per cent markdown.
“Potential candidates are feeling the pinch— many are reluctant to spend thousands on a campaign, much like a gambler hesitating to place their bet on a high-stakes hand.
“The financial pressures tied to campaigning—printing, advertising, community outreach—are like storm clouds hanging over would-be candidates, dampening their enthusiasm.”
The five-time mayor and ALP candidate Jim Memeti also agrees the campaign funding is a major put-off for residents.
“I’m surprised there’s not more people running but it does cost a lot of money to run a campaign and it’s all funded by yourself so that’s something that may have affected some candidates.
“I love to see the culturally diverse groups that have put up their name and that shows the representation of our community so it’s great to have that diversity on council.”
Despite the shift, Cr O’Reilly emphasises the importance of keeping democracy alive.
“Local elections should be a competitive playing field, not an empty arena. We need all voices, big and small, to take the stage.”
Meet the Dandenong North Ward candidates
DANDENONG NORTH WARD
Suburbs: Dandenong North
Sitting councillor: Bob Milkovic, elected 2020
Other candidates: Daniel Formoso, Rosana Ierone, Rhonda Tanous (Australian Labor Party), Branka Tomic (ALP)
BOB MILKOVIC
Suburb of residence:
Dandenong North
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
26 proud years
Political party (past or present):
I am an independant. I’m not endorsed by any political party nor have I been a member of any political party
Occupation, business/employer name: Local Dandenong Real Estate Agent
DANIEL FORMOSO
Suburb of residence:
Dandenong North
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
Over 20 years
Political party (past or present): No political affiliation
Occupation, business/employer name:
Horticulturalist/Landscaper
Property interests: Home Owner mortgagee
Business interests: NIL
Three most important issues for your ward: (too many to mention)
1. Stud Road signalised Pedestrian crossing to be built ASAP to ensure safe passage for pedestrians, elderly, parent/carers with prams and cyclists to connect them with our beautiful 99km bike trail.
RHONDA TANNOUS
Suburb of residence:
Dandenong
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
My whole life I have lived in Dandenong.
Political party
(past or present): I am a member of the ALP but I am running independently to represent my community’s best interests.
Occupation, business/employer name: I work to run my small business Why Not? Bakery at
Property interests: Place of residence and one other investment property
Business interests: Helping my wife run her company.
Three most important issues for your ward:
1. Keeping rate increases low and advocating for council to run as efficient and effective as possible.
2. Maintaining local roads and facilities, including parks and reserves. I will also advocate for the continuation and delivery of the Lois Twohig Reserve Master Plan, which has been a passion of mine
2. Improvements and upgrades to the Dandenong Basketball/Volleyball and State Centre in the next budget cycle as a major focus in collaboration with SEL.
3. The Lois Twohig Reserve masterplan to be delivered on time and within budget to address the needs of the community, including all abilities, appropriate for the ageing facilities and increasing the sports club usage. In particular having a sun shade for the playground.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I am a father of two sons who were heavily involved in sport. Unfortunately, many of the facilities are not at a suitable standard for our children to participate in sport which is something I am deeply passionate about as a sportsperson myself my entire life. I am a local junior cricket, soccer and Auskick coach. I am an ambassador for Monash Children’s Hospital
Dandenong Market.
Property interests: 1.
Business interests:
My bakery at the Dandenong Market.
Three most important issues for your ward:
My interests are the community’s interests. Many people have spoken to me about improving safety in the community, keeping our parks and neighbourhoods clean, and fixing potholes in our local roads.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
My bakery has served our much loved commu-
3. Supporting local businesses, volunteer/community groups and continue to listen and take action to the community’s needs.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
As a father of three, local business owner and current councillor, I have been able to support community groups through advocacy and knowledge
Why are you standing for election?
To continue representing the residents of Dandenong North Ward without political influence, rather a genuine local voice based on the needs of the local community.
and My Room Children’s Cancer Charity. I also partake in the Clean up Australia Day initiative every year with my family.
Why are you standing for election?
I have lived in Greater Dandenong for over 20 years. I was born and raised in Monash City Council and once I moved to Dandenong North, instantly realised what an incredible community City of Greater Dandenong is. It is the most culturally diverse community in all of Australia and I particularly love going to the Dandenong Market twice a week with my sons as well as Springvale for our weekly shopping which has the best Pho in Melbourne. I have noticed that many issues have not been addressed in my ward for the past four years and I believe I can be the one to deliver that change for the ward. I have been deeply impressed by the work my wife Cr Lana Formoso has done in Noble Park North ward and the municipality as
nity for many years. I was involved in volunteering at my childrens’ school and my bakery has helped to raise money for our local hospitals. Why are you standing for election?
The community in Dandenong North deserves a hard working representative who will fight for their interests. I have always been passionate about helping others and would like to make a positive difference by working to improve local infrastructure and services so our kids can have a bright future. What is your campaign budget? No budget at this stage.
What is your campaign budget?
This is unknown at the moment
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
No donors and contributors. I will be self financing my campaign as I did four years ago. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
None at this stage of campaign
Who will you direct your preferences to?
My How To Vote Card will be from top-down 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
a whole, particularly during what has been the most challenging time in our personal lives as our son has battled with cancer since 2022.
What is your campaign budget?
$2,000
Who are your campaign donors?
Don’t have any
How much have each contributed? N/A
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
My wife Mayor Cr Lana Formoso has been an incredible inspiration to me and our sons. The hard working determination I have seen in her and the outcomes she has been able to deliver is absolutley outstanding. I also want to set an example to our children and emulate her tenacity to deliver for our community. #TeamFormoso
Who will you direct your preferences to?
Anyone that isn’t a real estate agent
Who are your campaign donors?
How much have each contributed? I will be contributing my own money to the campaign. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
My family and friends who live locally are helping my campaign.
Who will you direct your preferences to? Not yet decided. But I will be preferencing candidates who have similar visions to mine about working hard to make Dandenong North a wonderful place to live.
Cr Sean O’Reilly at the gateway of Springvale. (Stewart Chambers: 421288)
Ballots drawn for election
By Sahar Foladi
Greater Dandenong Council candidate names and positions were sealed at the ballot draw for the October council elections.
At the draw at the VEC Dandenong office, Cleeland Ward’s sitting ALP councillor Angela Long took third position, while Greens rival Rhonda Garad took the “psychological win” first position on the ballot.
Another ALP member Zahra Haydar Big has taken second position in the same ward saying she’s confident that she has a strong chance to win the seat from the two incumbent councillors.
This will be her second time running for local elections after her first run at the Yarraman byelection.
The five-time mayor and ALP member Jim Memeti took out the first position in the draw against Rahima Rizai who also ran at the Yarraman by-election. She is the only opposition against Cr Memeti.
Rizai says the wards needs a fresh face and voice however Cr Memeti’s pool of supporters have already took to social media to vouch for him.
If re-elected it’ll be Cr Memeti’s sixth time on Council.
“It doesn’t matter how many people run against you,” Cr Memeti said.
“I still think you still have to do the hard work and pull the hard yards, so I’ll definitely be treating it as if there’s 10 people running against me and hopefully I’ll come out on the top at the end of the elections.”
On the other hand, the Noble Park ward sitting councillor Sophie Tan has won the seat with no contest as the only other candidate Dy Truong withdrew from the race on the final day of nominations.
“I am thrilled and honoured to be re-elected in Noble Park Ward. I’ll be declared elected after voting closes on 25 October,” Cr Tan says.
“As the race is uncontested, voters enrolled in Noble Park Ward will not get a ballot pack in the mail this October. I’ll looking forward to serve our community for the next four years.”
Other wards without a sitting councillor such as the Keysborough South, Keysborough and Springvale Central wards had a lot of new candidates who say they just want to improve the area for good.
Bachelor of Law student at Victoria University Ajdin Muzur has his hands up to run for the Keysborough South ward. The ALP affiliated candidate has lived in Keysborough South for the past
16 years and is very much into politics.
“I’ve been part of politics for the majority of my life and I thrive in that environment.
“It’s time for me to give back to the community and that’s a skill set I’ve grown my whole life to make my community thrive.”
He’s yet to form an opinion on the “contentious” issue around the Green Wedge and South East Sporting Hub widely reported previously by the Dandenong Journal.
“As of right now I haven’t fully made up my mind as to which side I sit. I want to continue speaking with residents about it. There are a lot of people who don’t want the development to happen because of the Green Wedge.”
Dandenong North candidate Branka Tomic, who migrated from Germany in 2001, has lived in the ward for her whole life. She has raised a son as a single mother when the ward was “very quiet” compared to the bustling roads we see now. Ms Tomic says local council shouldn’t be muddled up with politics. “People should run independently and not act like politicians. There should be no politics here just normal residents who want to improve the standards of living.”
Ballot pack will be mailed out to residents on Monday 7 October and voting will close at noon on Friday 25 October.
Greater Dandenong Council candidates, in ballot order:
CLEELAND: GARAD, Rhonda; HAYDAR BIG, Zahra; LONG, Angela; HEWAVITHARANA, Pradeep
DANDENONG NORTH: FORMOSO, Daniel; IERONE, Rosana; TANNOUS, Rhonda; TOMIC, Branka; MILKOVIC, Bob
DANDENONG: MEMETI, Jim; RIZAI, Rahima
KEYSBOROUGH SOUTH: MUZUR, Ajdin; BRYANT, Alexandra; DO, Isabella; GONSALVEZ, Geraldine; JANKOVIC, Sasha
KEYSBOROUGH: YIM, Melinda; PINCHEIRA, Reinaldo Ivan; BROWN, Peter; IN, Hemara; GOV, Tevyn; DANG, Daniel; AKKURT, Sinan
NOBLE PARK NORTH: BILLINGS, Will; AGRAVANTE, Love; RATHNAYAKE, Karl; FORMOSO, Lana NOBLE PARK: TAN, Sophie
SPRINGVALE CENTRAL: BUNLAY, Meng; TRUONG, Hor; DALTON, Brian; LE, Alice Phuong; LE, Minh; STEBBINGS, Sean
SPRINGVALE NORTH: DINH, Huong; HOLL, Angela; O’REILLY, Sean
SPRINGVALE SOUTH: HEM, Malab; YIM, Thayhorn; TRUONG, Loi; TRAN, Andy; SOK, Lin; THAI, Yen
YARRAMAN: DANH, Phillip; COOK, Ian
Formoso family aims for Greater Dandenong Council seats
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
In a surprise move, a clan of Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso’s family is set to contest several wards at the Greater Dandenong Council election.
Cr Formoso will re-contest her Noble Park North seat, her husband Daniel Formoso will oppose Dandenong North Ward incumbent councillor Bob Milkovic and her brother Sasha Jankovic will run in Keysborough South Ward.
Cr Formoso and Jankovic are Labor members, while Daniel is a former member still holding “Labor values”.
The move was a “spontaneous” and “very last-minute“ decision, after seeing the lack of candidates running in the election, Cr Formoso says. “It started as a bit of a joke. I asked Daniel why don’t you run in this ward? We didn’t see a lot of people putting their hand up. At least we’re giving it a go.”
Cr Formoso said that her family members were “extremely motivated” to run for council after being “inspired” by her own “fantastic” work for Noble Park North. “They’ve seen how impactful I’ve been as one person. Imagine what more people with the same values can achieve?
“We want to get stuff done.”
Daniel, a horticulturalist and landscaper who has volunteered at Lyndale soccer club, Silverton Cricket Club and Mulgrave Cricket Club, said he wanted improved parks including Lois Twohig Reserve.
Cr Formoso said Jankovic was born and raised in Dandenong, a soccer prodigy who is
affiliated with Springvale White Eagles and their church in Keysborough. In standing for election, Daniel wanted to take a “leaf out of Lana’s book” in running in their home ward.
“You couldn’t have more of an impressive ambassador,” he says. “I’ve been keen for a long time now.”
Council meeting arguments looked like a “school classroom” at times. “Everyone should be on the same page – if (Lana and I are) both elected, combined we’d have better outcomes,” Daniel said. When asked how other councillors might feel, Daniel said: “We don’t care. We’re entitled to run, anyone is able to run.”
Cr Formoso said the “dynamic duo” would alternate attending in person at council meetings. The other would stay home and attend online.
She believes a spouse team would be a first for Greater Dandenong, but has precedent in other councils. “We want to see some changes in Dandenong North. I noticed there has been some neglect there and needed some advocacy like the Stud Road crossing.”
She proudly looks at the line markings for a long-awaited signalised pedestrian crossing at Stud Road and McFees Road. As mayor, she was at the forefront of lobbying for urgent action after the tragic death of a two-year-old boy on Stud Road last December. In May, state funding was belatedly announced for the ‘shovel-ready’ project. The project will include flattening the undulating Stud Road surface, as well as a council funded footpath from the crossing to Dandenong Stadium, Cr Formoso said.
Dandenong North independent Cr Milkovic said “Lana did her bit”, as well as lobbying from Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and Greater Dandenong Council.
“We all advocated for that. But as a council, we had no control over that state project.”
He questioned why the Formoso clan wanted to “cover the council”.
“I’d be a little concerned having three of 11 councillors belonging to the same family. I expected the Labor party would be up against me, I didn’t expect the mayor’s husband. I’m not sure how the residents will respond – they’ll wonder is this good for us or not?”
In something of a twist, Love Agravante –who is a member of Milkovic’s real estate firm - is running against Cr Formoso in Noble Park North Ward. He knows of Agravante, but had
nothing to do with her candidacy, he says.
Elected in 2020, Milkovic said he’d “tremendously” enjoyed his term as councillor. He was proud of the start of the Lois Twohig Reserve upgrade masterplan, a well-received upgrade to the active Brady Road shopping strip and improvements to Tirhatuan Park.
“I’ve delivered what the residents were asking for. They are not just my residents, they’re my neighbours. You don’t need to spend copious money on research and consultation from outside companies. You just need to listen to residents, apply yourself and push to get our share of the pie.”
Milkovic says most of the resident requests are “everyday stuff” like rubbish collection, facilities, roads and parks being “up to scratch”.
“I’m truly blessed that my residents are easygoing, and are not after anything overly political – like signing nuclear disarmament treaties. Just fix the roads, fix the footpaths, that sort of stuff.”
Cr Milkovic will be opposed by not only Daniel Formoso but other Labor-leaning candidates Branka Tomic and Rhonda Tannous.
“I think it’s important to have an independent presence on council. We need people to represent the residents.”
Tomic is a marriage celebrant and aged care worker, who speaks four languages.
Tannous, who owns Why Not? bakery at Dandenong Market and ran for council in 2016, said she wanted to be the “voice of the community”.
“It’s not about what I want, it’s about what they want.”
Council election candidates Daniel and Lana Formoso, with their sons Hugo and Luka and dog Jack at the site of a pedestrian crossing at a notorious Stud Road blackspot. (Gary Sissons: 432404)
Car-free market push
By Sahar Foladi
An incumbent Greens councillor, who claims Cleeland Ward has been “neglected”, has shared a “bold” vision to create a traffic-free pedestrian zone near Dandenong Market.
Councillor Rhonda Garad is seeking to switch seats from Keysborough South Ward to Cleeland at the City of Greater Dandenong elections in October.
Dandenong Market, considered the heart and soul of the city, and the proposed Dandenong Community Hub were the attraction points for Garad, who is pitting herself against long-term serving councillor Angela Long.
Speaking to residents, Garad says many people struggle to visit the market due to its lack of accessibility, claiming the “run down” market and its surrounding areas are “not user-friendly.”
“The market’s bazaar, once a lively hub, now needs reinvigorating to attract more shoppers and make it a vibrant destination once again,” she says.
She will seek the closure of Stuart Street to create a pedestrian-friendly and green space similar to the likes of the Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market and Rotterdam’s Markthal.
“By closing Stuart Street to traffic, we’ll be creating a safe, beautiful, and accessible public space where people can come together.
“This green corridor will be filled with trees, gardens, and public art, making it a place where families, friends, and visitors can meet, relax, and
enjoy the vibrant heart of Dandenong.”
The vision also includes shaded walkways and seating areas to create a space for community engagement.
A Lebanese bakery trader at the market Rhonda Tannous says they need the “market vibe back.”
“I reckon more festivals and activities for kids would attract people.”
Ms Tannous is also a candidate for Dandenong North Ward in the City of Greater Dandenong Council elections.
She says the one hour parking in the area needs to be at least two hours and more car parks are needed.
Meanwhile, Garad aims to connect the community with the market and the upcoming Dandenong Community Hub which will make part of the precinct.
“This is about more than just transforming a street—it’s about creating a space that brings people together, enhances local businesses, and makes Dandenong a more beautiful, liveable city.
“It will be a precinct where everyone—from young families to older persons—can find something they love.”
Integrating the market with the hub will create a “unified, accessible precinct”, as the hub will offer a range of community services, meeting spaces, and cultural activities leading the Market Precinct to become a lively, year-round destination for all, Garad says.
Her plans also include affordable food, accessibility and expanding the market’s cultural and culinary offerings.
The Market is already home to over 200 traders from produce, clothing, meat, seafood, spices bread and more.
It provides a home delivery service to support seniors and people with mobility challenges, helping them to have access to inexpensive fresh goods.
“We have a unique opportunity to make Dandenong a city that truly serves its people—a place where affordability, beauty, and inclusivity go hand in hand,” Garad says.
“This vision is about cantering the market area as the heart of Dandenong where people want to spend time and feel proud of our great city.”
The Dandenong Market is in operation since 1866 and is one of Melbourne’s oldest markets. It celebrated its 150th birthday in 2016.
City of Greater Dandneong chief executive officer Jacqui Weatherill says Council have made a commitment to deliver the Dandenong Market Precinct Masterplan but no further information on the details of the plan have been disclosed as yet.
“We have made a budget commitment to deliver the Dandenong Market Precinct Masterplan and expect to finalise this by late 2025. Officers are doing preliminary work on the plan and will discuss it with Councillors following the election, before engaging with the broader community.”
Meet the candidates in the running for Cleeland Ward
CLEELAND WARD
• Suburbs: parts of Dandenong, Dandenong West and Dandenong North
• Sitting councillor: Angela Long (Australian La-
PRADEEP HEWAVITHARANA
Suburb of residence:
Dandenong
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? 21
Years
Political party (past or present): ALP
Occupation, business/employer name:
Pensioner
Property interests:
I don’t have any property
Business interests: No
Three most important issues for your ward:
1.Insufficient parking spaces.
2.Housing shortage
3.Improved recreational facilities at Gerard Street Reserve
bor Party), 1997-2005 and 2008-present
• Other candidates: Rhonda Garad (Greens), Zahra Haydar Big (ALP), Pradeep Hewavitharana (ALP)
Describe your involvement in the local community:
More than nine years working with Dandenong City Council’s Disability Advisory Committee and working with South Melbourne Region Iclusion working Group.
Why are you standing for election?
I would like to share my experience to improve the community, especially for people with disabilities and aging individuals
What is your campaign budget?
Very limited
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
Myself
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
Councillor Angela Long
Who will you direct your preferences to? ALP members first
RHONDA GARAD
Suburb of residence: Dandenong
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? 30 years
Political party (past or present): Greens
Occupation, business/employer name: Monash University
Property interests: Own home
Business interests: None
Three most important issues for your ward: Residents in Cleeland Ward desire a safer, greener, cleaner, and more connected community. Through extensive door knocking, I’ve learned that the key concerns are the cost of living, public safety (inadequate street lighting and unsafe footpaths), and rubbish dumping.
I am committed to addressing these issues so that we can all feel safer, more connected, and proud of our community.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have served as the past President of Dandenong High School Council (with 9 years on the
council), past President of the School Council at Wooranna Park Primary School, and I am a member of the Greater Dandenong Environment Group. Previous Councillor Keysborough South, and I also volunteer for the Dandenong Park Run.
Why are you standing for election?
I am running for Cleeland Ward because it is where I live, and I am deeply concerned that we have been neglected for too long. This area, the heart of our city, is one of the least clean and attractive wards in Dandenong. I want to be a strong voice for residents and work tirelessly to improve our ward for everyone.
What is your campaign budget?
$2500
Who are your campaign donors? How much have they contributed?
Individual supporters: $1100
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
Mathew Kirwan (former 2-term Councillor, City of Greater Dandenong)
Who will you direct your preferences to? No one
Cleeland Ward candidate Rhonda Garad standing in parkland next to Stuart Street, which she envisions to close for pedestrian-friendly open green space. (Gary Sissons: 432339)
Cleeland Ward candidates Pradeep Hewavitharana, Zahra Haydar Big, Rhonda Garad and Angela Long at the ballot draw. (Gary Sissons: 432584)
Tent camp on MP’s doorstep
By Sahar Foladi
A nationally-organised protest group has descended on Dandenong, advocating for permanent visas for asylum seekers waiting for more than 12 years.
Tents, banners, gazebo, table and large placards were on display outside the office of Bruce MP Julian Hill, who is also the Assistant Minister for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs.
A Hobart man Arad Nik has travelled to Dandenong to join the protest encampment, which chanted “Free, free RoS visa” over loudspeakers.
The group of 12-15 people were prepared to camp in front of the office for days and nights from Monday 16 September.
Nik fled Iran in 2012 and was kept in an immigration detention centre on Christmas Island.
He waited for 12 years before receiving a permanent visa in 2023 but his passion for a permanent solution remains especially for those still on Temporary Protection Visas (TPV) and Safe Haven Enterprise Visas (SHEV).
“This is my duty for the people trying to find some freedom here.
“They are my people and I’m responsible. We have the same skin, and try to fight for one thing, one request - a permanent visa for people seeking asylum.”
Mr Hill met with the protesters outside his office, spoke to them and listened to their stories.
“Almost 18,000 of the 19,000 Temporary Protection Visa holders in limbo for a decade under the Liberals have now been granted permanent visas and many others from the Bridging Visa caseload are now also now able to apply for permanent protection,” he recently told Star Journal.
“The legacy of the remaining caseload is complex, and every case is different and needs to be worked through individually.”
As reported previously by Star Journal, the majority of those remaining are 7376 who have had their visas refused, cancelled or expired. Many of
them are seeking a review.
A further 2475 had been denied visas but had not yet sought a review.
According to Mr Nik their message will be passed onto Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who has also had discussions with the group during a protest outside his office in Sydney.
“I’m positive for a good outcome, he’s very nice,” Nik said.
“He listened to everyone who is ignored by the system. The solution is in their hands.
“(The protest group) shared stories about their
family, situation, visa and they said only thing that will make them happy is a permanent visa.”
The protest started outside Hotham MP and former Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil’s office. After a Cabinet reshuffle, the protest diverted to Burke’s office in Sydney on 6 August, Brisbane, Adelaide on 2 September and now in Dandenong.
Nik says he aims to encourage refugees and asylum seekers to stand up for themselves and raise their voices.
The protest encampment will continue in different parts of Australia.
After they wrap up the action here, the group will either return to Burke’s office or head to Canberra.
Recently, a 23-year-old Dandenong asylum seeker, died after self-harming in a car near Noble Park Skate Park.
Mano Yogalingham was living in limbo since the age of 11.
This was preceded by the premature death of Uthayakaran Periyathamby from unknown causes a month ago.
Abas is one of the protesters outside the Bruce MP’s office in Dandenong. (Stewart Chambers: 431560)
Tahereh Karbala, Parisa Ramak and Nasim Semnani camping outside Bruce MP Julian Hill’s office in Dandenong. (Gary Sissons: 432563)
NEWS Slug Gate flares in Yarraman
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A business person suing Greater Dandenong Council over the ‘Slug Gate’ affair is now seeking to join its councillor ranks.
I Cook Foods director Ian Cook says that “it’s time” that the council got a “shake-up” as he goes head-to-head with Yarraman Ward incumbent Phillip Danh at next month’s council elections.
Cook’s platform is to be an independent voice to fight corruption and reduce council spending and rates.
“This is not just me on a personal campaign or vendetta, but to make sure that the council is free of corruption, that it is there for businesses and there for the employment of young people in Dandenong.
“It’s time that it got a shake-up.”
Cook – who ran second in Mulgrave during the 2022 state election and third in the 2023 state byelection, expects the Labor Party will “pull out all stops” to ensure he doesn’t win.
For his part, Cr Danh - an ALP member - says he’s running for the “public interest” not for “business and personal interests”.
“I’ve lived in Noble Park all of my life and I’m proud of my community.
“I was drawn to public service since I was young and being elected as a councillor has been the greatest privilege of my life.
“I’m not doing this for myself.”
The law student and former electorate officer for federal Labor MP Julian Hill won the seat in a by-election in March this year.
He now faces his second election campaign in six months – “a lot of election for one year,” he says.
Among his chief concerns are community safety, homelessness and cost of living.
Policing wasn’t a council matter, but safety could be improved with better outdoor lighting and more activity in shopping areas – a form of passive surveillance.
Cr Danh also will press for the council to retain
its home aged-care services beyond 2027 – though he’s unable to formally vote due to a conflict of interest (a relation of his works in the service).
“I wouldn’t say it’s frustrating. The rules are there for a reason – integrity is important and I’ll always follow the legal advice.
“I can still spread awareness of that issue and hope that my council colleagues will agree.
“I do know there are hundreds of workers in that field that provide a magnificent service to our seniors, and hundreds more that rely on that service.”
Cook says he was inspired to run for council after councillors recently rebuffed his invitation to meet and resolve the Slug Gate case.
Instead, the council will appeal its unsuccess-
ful bid at the Victorian Supreme Court to throw out the litigation.
“You’ve got councillors not making a decision about what the council is going to spend on legal costs.
“From what I’m told, the decision’s made by an unelected CEO and unelected lawyers.
“The CEO should work for the councillors, not the other way around.”
Cr Danh says there’s “nothing” that councillors can do to influence the process once the matter is before the courts.
Cook is suing the council and two officers for alleged malicious prosecution and public misfeasance.
It follows his commercial catering company in
Dandenong South being shut down by health authorities as part of an investigation into a listeriainfected patient’s death at Knox Private Hospital in 2019.
ICF and Cook were charged by the council with 96 food-safety offences that were later withdrawn.
As an experienced business owner, Cook was keen to “scrutinise” council budgets to ensure ratepayers got “best value”.
Cr Danh also said he was vigilant about council spending.
“The residents I represent work really, really hard. It’s their money that funds council rates and the council budget.”
Cook supports changing the process for mayoral elections.
Mayors should be popularly decided by the electorate for a term, not passed like a “roundabout” among Labor-majority councillors. Raised in a Labor-voting family, Cook says he was instilled with the “Labor values” that are no longer followed by the political party.
Cr Danh, as the incumbent, says he takes “nothing for granted”.
“I love this community and have lived here all my life.”
Get to know the candidates going head-to-head
YARRAMAN WARD
Suburbs: Parts of Noble Park and Dandenong West, including Yarraman railway station precinct
Sitting councillor: Phillip Danh (Australian Labor Party), elected March 2024
Other candidates: Ian Cook
IAN COOK
Suburb of residence:
Dandenong and I have owned factories and worked in the area for over 30 years.
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? 10 years
Political party (past or present): I have never been a member of any political party.
Occupation, business/employer name: I am in the food industry and self-employed.
Property interests:
I own a modest home in Adelaide Street and have had to sell my factory to pay for my legal bills and honour my financial commitments to my former staff.
Business interests:
I have no current business interests since my company I Cook Foods was destroyed by Council.
Three most important issues for your ward:
1. We need to ensure that the rates collected in Yarraman Ward are only spent on improving facilities and council services which benefit residents.
2. In these tough economic times, it’s crucial for Dandenong Council to curb unnecessary spending, in order to allow for a reduction in rates. This would provide relief to both homeowners and renters alike.
3. We must also address concerns about potential corruption in the Council, by ensuring full transparency and accountability around the use of ratepayers money.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
Why are you standing for election?
PHILLIP DANH
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? My entire life I have lived in Noble Park. Political party (past or present): I am a proud Labor member with true Labor values, but am not endorsed and am running independently.
Occupation, business/employer name: Councillor, Yarraman Ward, and final year law student at Monash University.
Property interests: NIL
Business interests: NIL
Three most important issues for your ward:
1. Oppose privatisation of Council services including Home and Aged Care for seniors. These essential services must stay in public hands to ensure that Seniors in our community continue to receive safe and high-quality care.
the community, not myself.
Why are you standing for election?
I am currently running a campaign to shine a light on corruption and to reduce wasteful spending by council.
What is your campaign budget?
My campaign budget is incredibly modest. I am relying on word on mouth and hoping people know what I stand for. I have been preparing an information flyer, posters, and other election materials, and am relying on volunteers wherever possible.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
At this time, I have no campaign donors and am currently self-funding my election campaign. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I have not sought advice from any politicians or councillors.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
With only two candidates running for Yarraman, preferences will not be a factor.
It will come down to who receives the largest primary vote.
I am hoping presidents will VOTE #1 for Ian Cook. I am dedicated to lowering rates, cutting council spending, ending council corruption, and ensuring that any new graffiti is removed within 24 hours of being reported. That’s because a clean Yarraman is a safe Yarraman.
As a business owner, I have always employed locals and actively helped people with disabilities to secure employment. In the past, I have worked closely with Wallara and Emerson School.
2. Safety remains a serious concern for many in our community. I will continue what I started and work with council officers and local police to keep our community safe. Council must be committed to support local businesses and jobs to ensure our youth are meaningfully engaged. Investment in services for families, sporting clubs and volunteer community groups are also just as important for the next generation to gain skills and employment.
3. Ensuring basic services like rubbish clean up, road repairs, street lighting and graffiti removal in Noble Park and Dandenong West is important. Ratepayers money should be spent wisely to ensure basic local amenities are adequate for community health and wellbeing, and not wasted.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
Others may be, but I’m not in this for myself. For years I’ve been genuinely engaged with our local community, multicultural and sporting organisations across Noble Park and Dandenong West. I have spoken personally to thousands of voters on their doorsteps this past year, listening to residents’ concerns and helping to fix problems. I am proud of our area and will always take the role seriously and act in the interests of
Giving back and caring about other people is how I’ve been raised by my parents. I have always been drawn to community service and serving as our Councillor this year has been an immense privilege. I take pride in advocating on people’s behalf and helping to resolve complex local problems.
Fresh and energetic voices are needed and not the same old tired negativity and whinging.
What is your campaign budget?
A few thousand dollars, however much people can spare.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
Small donations from friends and family over the next month. I am grateful for their contributions given that many are doing it tough at the moment. All donations will be disclosed as required by electoral laws.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
Former Councillor and Mayor Roz Blades has been an important mentor. I am grateful for her assistance and I admire her passion in advocating for our community even after she retired from public office.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
There are only 2 candidates. I’m asking for residents to Vote [1] Phillip Danh and to put a [2] in the other box.
Ian Cook, pictured during the 2022 state election, is back on the hustings. (Rob Carew: 309898)
Phillip Danh is defending his Yarraman Ward seat. (Stewart Chambers: 424085)
Jailed over ‘letter’
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A Springvale-based company director has been jailed over providing a fake employment letter for a bail applicant at court.
Rothanak Khim, 31, who ran the defunct Ream Labours Provider Pty Ltd, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to attempting to pervert the course of justice.
Khim had signed the letter in late 2023 to falsely confirm that the bail applicant Aladore Walsh was an employee for the past two years.
His motivation had been financial, sentencing judge Pardeep Tiwana stated on 13 September.
“Mr Walsh securing bail would have meant that he would continue to pay you in exchange for you keeping him ‘on the books’,” Khim said.
“You wanted him to be released because he owed you more than $3,000.”
In a phone call with police, Khim maintained the lie. He told them that the applicant was an excellent site supervisor, managing mainly sites in Springvale.
Walsh at the time was working on a job in Leman Crescent, Noble Park, Khim claimed.
However the Noble Park property’s owner told police that a different company was working on the site. They didn’t know of Walsh.
The owner had met Khim while working together at a Footscray Market fruit shop about 10 years earlier and occasionally met since.
Khim was arrested, and conceded Walsh had last worked for him 11 months earlier.
His labour-hire company had at the time lost its licence and hadn’t been operating since 2022.
The Cambodian-born Khim had a prior conviction for driving unlicensed and using a false driver’s licence with his photo and in another person’s name in 2022.
Judge Tiwana noted that the serious offending was planned and involved lying to a court and a police officer over two days.
“Attempting to pervert the course of justice is an offence that undermines the integrity of the criminal justice system and the rule of law.
“Unsurprisingly, it is regarded as a very serious offence marked by a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.”
IN BRIEF
Dandenong, Springvale homes
gutted by fire
Police are investigating a suspicious unit fire in Olive Street, Dandenong on Sunday night (22 September).
After being roused by multiple triple-0 calls, FRV firefighters found the unit and garage “fully involved” about 9pm, a Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said.
“Crews gained entry to the unit and all people were accounted for.
“The incident was deemed suspicious and the scene was handed to Victoria Police.”
Ambulance Victoria paramedics treated an injured person at the scene.
Meanwhile, residents were evacuated from a house fire in Union Grove, Springvale at 5pm on the same day.
The 300-square-metre dwelling was “well alight” when firefighters arrived.
Community advice messages were issued to warn of smoke from both blazes.
Teens arrested after alleged 170km/h police-evade
Two teens have been arrested after allegedly speeding at 170km/h in a stolen ute while evading police across the South East.
Police spotted the orange Holden Colorado on Monash Freeway, Narre Warren about 1.20am on Monday 23 September.
An Air Wing unit spotted the ute being driven erratically up to 170km/h, travelling in Warragul, Narre Warren, Hampton Park, Dandenong South and Pakenham.
Police deployed tyre-deflation devices on Greens Road, Dandenong South. The vehicle was dumped in Hedley Place, Hampton Park.
Judge Tiwana convicted and jailed Khim for five months, followed by an “onerous” 15-month community corrections order.
The CCO included 120 hours of unpaid work and mental health treatment.
He also took into account Khim’s early guilty plea, his “fair” rehabilitation prospects as well as his potential deportation would make custody more onerous.
The teens fled on foot and were arrested in nearby parkland.
A 15-year-old Hampton Park boy and a 16-year-old Armstrong Creek girl were taken into police custody for questioning.
The ute was allegedly stolen from a home on City Vista Circuit, Cranbourne West about 4am on Saturday 21 September.
The County Court of Victoria. (231934)
Whale of a time at the show
The South East’s affordable alternative to the Royal Melbourne Show again attracted thousands of fun-loving families at Myuna Farm on Sunday 22 September.
On a peach of a day, Doveton Show featured farm animals, thrilling rides, showbags, food trucks and live performances.
There was also an array of community stalls such as Narre Warren SES with a popular array of toy chainsaws, or a display of pygmy blue whale vertbrae.
Each year, Doveton Show is staged by volunteers as an affordable day of fun at the start of the spring school holidays.
Skylah, 3, from Officer, feeds a small goat. (Gary Sissons: 431626)
Jashrieta, 6, from Narre Warren South, peers through a Pygmy Blue Whale’s Vertebrae. (431626)
Hugh, 5, from Port Melbourne, joins the Kiss Army. (431626)
Ryan, 7, from Dandenong North on one of the rides with his bubble blower. (431626)
An airbourne Adrian, lying outside, and Andrei, both from Dandenong North. (431626)
Bailey from The Airbrush Company works on some cap art. (431626)
Bayley, 3, tries a toy chainsaw at the Narre Warren SES stall. ((431626)
Nicasha, 3, from Doveton and Silvio Seeboruth from Narre Warren SES. (431626)
One of the tall, thrill-seeking rides. (431626)
All smiles on the Bad Boys II ride. (431626)
Amelia, 10, and Harper, 9, from Bayswater. (431626)
Doveton Show volunteers Ann Keeys and Tamanna Mohammadi. (431626)
Ethan O’Connor from Myuna Farm. (431626)
Ukulele player-singer Sage Marie. (431626)
Crowds flocked to Myuna Park. (431626)
Toppled crane
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A company has been convicted and fined $160,000 after a 60-tonne crane toppled near two workers on a Dandenong South construction site in 2019.
Misz Pty Ltd, trading as Steel and Precast Erectors, was sentenced in the Victorian County Court on 18 September after pleading guilty to a charge of failing to ensure a safe workplace.
The company had been hired to lift and install pre-fabricated steel structures to form a roof on a factory’s building extension.
On a windy 3 June 2019, the crane tilted over to the right.
Its boom struck the building roof, and its load of steel components crashed onto the building and close to two workers on a nearby platform.
The crane operator – a Misz director - had to crawl out of the crane’s cabin. He told WorkSafe that a gust of wind had pushed the crane “out of radius”, sentencing judge Andrew Palmer said.
“That no-one was injured or killed, when they might easily have been, is a matter of pure luck.”
A WorkSafe inspector found a bulldog clip was used to disable a warning system in the cabin.
If operational, it could have alerted the operator and led to the load’s weight being reduced, the crane moved closer to the building, using a larger crane or waiting for weather conditions to change, WorkSafe argued.
Judge Palmer said Misz’s guilty plea acknowledged there was a risk that by disabling the warning system that the crane was operated outside its safety parameters.
There was no evidence that the disabling happened on a regular basis, nor that Misz took a “cavalier or corner-cutting approach” to the lift.
He noted that Misz didn’t offer an explanation for why the warning system was disabled on that day.
“The obvious inference is that the warning system was disabled in order to allow the crane
to be operated near to, at, or beyond its safety parameters, without the warning being triggered.
“That inevitably makes it a serious breach.”
However, it was not as serious as bypassing an interlock or override device that prevents a machine being used in an unsafe manner, Judge
Palmer stated.
Misz, which is no longer trading, had no prior convictions or subsequent offending.
Its “traumatized” director later sold the crane.
The company had “limited capacity” to pay a fine.
WorkSafe health and safety executive director
Sam Jenkin said the consequences could have been “absolutely catastrophic”.
“Built-in safety mechanisms serve a very real purpose and it is simply unacceptable for any duty holder to treat them as an optional extra that can be switched off for the sake of short-term convenience.”
The County Court of Victoria. (AAP/Con Chronis)
Glamour world of guinea pigs
The weird and wonderful varieties of guinea pig were showcased at an international event at Menzies Hall on Sunday 22 September.
Cavy Council of Victoria – the oldest running guinea pig group in Australia – hosted more than 300 entries at two combined shows Oktoberfest and Polish Palooza.
Best In Show winners were Ken Peddersen with a Silver Agouti Dutch and Heidi Marshall with an English Self Buff.
Other winners included Jorja Wakely with ‘Roger’, a Rex-breed (Best Coarsecoat), and Ben Carter with ‘Garfield’, a Texel (Reserve Junior Condition).
International judges Patrick Staniec, from Germany, and Daniel Banasiak, from Poland, perused the entrants that flew, drove and sailed in from around Victoria and Australia.
“It was a busy day showing but everyone enjoyed an international lunch combining foods from Germany, Poland and Australia,” CCV vice president Michael Carter said.
Day out a hit
Little Day Out was all about the ‘Great Outdoors’ this year.
The annual extravaganza at Ross Reserve, Noble Park had youngsters getting their kicks as they tried karate, Australian Rules football, soccer, basketball and baseball.
There were also plenty of show rides, animal encounters, cultural music and dance, and free swimming at the nearby Noble Park Aquatic Centre.
Jawid, Hati and Zu from Dandenong South. (Gary Sissons: 431047)
Alessandro Dell’Aquila, 9, at the No Limits Aquila Academy activity. (Gary Sissons: 431047)
Mike with a black-headed python and Ebony with an alpine dingo. (Gary Sissons: 431047)
‘Garfield’ - a Texel breed - that won Reserve Best Junior Condition in Show. (Gary Sissons: 432990)
Ben Carter with ‘Garfield’ - a Texel breed - that won Reserve Best Junior Condition in Show. (432990)
Heidi Marshall with the Best Self in Show guinea pig and German judge Patrick Staeiec. (432990)
One of the more than 40 breeds of guinea pig on display. (432990)
Moon Dust Arizona, a Self Cream Guinea pig. (32990)
FOCUS ON … SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Stay safe in Victoria’s outdoors this holidays
Victorians planning a camping or hiking getaway in the coming weeks are reminded by Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics to be prepared to avoid needing an emergency response.
The warmer weather and school holidays mean many will be dusting off the camping gear or stepping into hiking boots for the first time in months, and AV manager Emergency Management Ian Hunt said it’s important people do these activities within their abilities and take preparation seriously.
“Before you hit the road, ask yourself if you’ve prepared for if something goes wrong,” he said.
“Consider learning basic first aid and CPR as emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time.
“There are many parks and remote bushland locations across Victoria where people can enjoy hiking, mountain bike riding, 4WDing or camping, but we want people to be safe.”
He said checking the weather and being prepared for conditions to change is vital if you’re spending time in remote or unfamiliar locations.
“It’s easy to become lost or disorientated in remote bushland, especially in unpredictable weather conditions,” Ian said.
“Make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the conditions and bring enough water, food, matches, a torch and sunscreen with you.
“For hikers, be sure to consider the 10 essentials – navigation, light, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, food, water and clothing.”
Always tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return, and if you’re with someone use the ‘buddy system’ to check each other
for warning signs of hypothermia or heatstroke. It can be difficult to recognise your own symptoms of hypothermia or heatstroke.
Ian said emergencies can happen any time and particularly in remote or unfamiliar environments, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the
FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN!
AFL Pencil Case Craft
Tuesday 24 - Thursday 26 September 11am to 2pm
Decorate and take home your own AFL Pencil Case.
Finals Fever Face Painting
Friday 27 September, 11am to 3pm
Get your face ready for the Grand Final!
Choose your team colours and wear them with pride.
Glitter Tattoos
Tuesday 1 - Thursday 3 October, 11am to 2pm
resources you may need to call Triple Zero (000).
“Anyone travelling to a remote location should download the EmergencyPlus app, which uses your phone’s GPS function to provide location details to the call taker,” he said.
“The app has the ‘What3Words’ function
which works offline so it can be used in remote areas with poor data connection and can confirm your exact location quickly and accurately using three words.
“You may also consider a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) which, when activated, sends an emergency signal via satellite to emergency services.”
Download the VicEmergency app or visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au to be notified of incidents and warnings in your area.
TIPS TO STAY SAFE OUTDOORS:
Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time, so consider learning first aid and CPR. Be prepared for weather conditions to change and dress appropriately.
Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return.
Bring enough water and food, and anything else you need to stay safe such as matches, a torch and sunscreen.
Be aware that depending on conditions, there is a risk of hypothermia and heatstroke.
Download the EmergencyPlus app which has a built-in GPS function to help a caller provide call takers with location details. The What3Words location function works offline so it can be used in remote areas with poor data connections as well.
Consider bringing a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) if you have one.
Download the?VicEmergency?app to be notified of incidents and warnings for your area.
Flash your style with a Glitter Tattoo!
Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are urging locals to be prepared to avoid needing an emergency response if you’re exploring the outdoors. (Supplied)
Aero club soars at dawn
By Ava Cashmore
At first light on Sunday 15 September, a fleet of planes took to the sky in celebration of Moorabbin Airport’s 45th annual Dawn Patrol with the Royal Victorian Aero Club.
The dawn patrol is held in honour of fallen aviators who have made the ultimate sacrifices in global conflicts, but particularly in commemoration of those lost in the Battle of Britain.
RVAC chief executive Paul Daff said the patrol is an event that club members look forward to every year.
“We’re proud to continue this event as part of our club’s 110-year legacy.
“For 45 years, we’ve flown this route to remember fallen aviators and their sacrifices.
“It’s a meaningful way to reflect on and honour our history while connecting with current and future pilots.”
The fly-past includes several significant historical locations including the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne Arts Centre, Westgate Bridge, Point Cook Aerodrome and Avalon Airport, before returning via Port Phillip Heads.
The Dawn Patrol was conceived in 1980 by Dr Paul Matthews, a pilot and esteemed member of the Royal Victorian Aero Club, and the tradition has been carried on by generations of aviation enthusiasts.
Pilot and RVAC member Micheal Murphy said: “We celebrate being part of the aviation fraternity and the camaraderie of flying.”
Following the patrol, participants and guests gathered at the RVAC clubrooms at Moorabbin Airport for a traditional cooked breakfast with guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel, Paul Middleton.
Event MC Richard Sibley said: “it’s important for all of us to remember these occasions because they’re important parts of our history that need to be passed on to our younger generations, and that knowledge needs to be transferred as well.
“It’s not a celebration, it’s an acknowledgement and a commemoration”
Drum to the blues for prostate cancer awareness
Dandenong’s Drum Theatre has been bathed in blue light for five nights in support of local men and families with prostate cancer.
The initiative from 16-20 September marked national Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, which runs throughout September.
The campaign was organised by the Dandenong Prostate Cancer Support Group (formerly South Eastern Prostate Cancer Support Group), in a bid to improve local awareness and connect men with much needed support.
Group leader Span Hanna urged men and families to reach out.
“We’re highly appreciative of the Greater Dandenong Council for agreeing to join us in this.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in our local region, although many men and families lack the support they need to cope with the diagnosis.
“Our hope is to raise greater awareness of early detection and to connect with men in our community who may need support.
“This point was raised and emphasised recently by Mr Paul Thomas, managing director of the Star News Group, at the Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch.
“Our Support Group provides men and their partners with information, advice, and the type of comfort that can only come from others who have been through the disease.”
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) chief executive Anne Savage, said peer support was vital to survivorship.
“Members of Dandenong Support Group know the difference that face-to-face support can make when a diagnosis of prostate cancer strikes.
“We strongly urge local men and families to connect with the Group and get involved in Prostate Cancer Awareness Month by helping us raise awareness of early detection.”
The theme of PCFA’s Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is ‘Get active in the fight against prostate cancer’.
Details: thelongrun.org.au
Dandenong Prostate Cancer Support Group’s Brian Brownett and deputy leader Steve Cox in front of the blue-bathed Drum Theatre. (Supplied)
The Royal Victorian Aero Club dawn patrol squadron prepares for lift-off. (Gary Sissons: 431558)
A bird’s eye view of Dandenong at dawn. (431558)
Peter Nelson from Frankston who supplied balsa models that he had crafted on display for the Dawn Patrol. He is holding a Hawker Hurricane model. Contact No: 0432 334 002 (431558)
L-R Anthony Jones, president of Royal Victorian Aero Club, and guest speaker Lt Col Paul Middleton from Australian Army Headquarters 2nd Division. (431558)
Pilot Matt (Matthew) Wuillemin and his CJ-6A Nanchang warbird plane, who led the Dawn Patrol. (431558)
The pre dawn briefing before the flight. (431558)
Guest speaker Lt Col Paul Middleton (Australian Army. Head Quarters 2nd Division). (431558)
Mike Murphy with his 1943 Boeing Stearman that was on display for the Dawn Patrol. (431558)
Royal Victorian Aero Club president Anthony Jones at the pre flight briefing. (431558)
Hamish Beedell from St Kevins College played the Last Post for the Few. (431558)
Ex-councillors eye seat
By Violet Li
Two sacked Casey councillors are going head to head in River Gum Ward in next month’s Casey Council election.
Damien Rosario and Wayne Smith used to be councillors in the same ward until the council was dismissed in the midst of an IBAC anti-corruption inquiry in 2020.
Former deputy mayor Rosario, who had no adverse findings against him, said it was “not an easy decision” to come back into the election race.
A Hampton Park resident, an IT educator, and a member of the Liberal party, he represented the same ward for seven and a half years.
“I only just made the decision to run, so this is not an easy decision,” Mr Rosario said.
“Because of all of the issues with the IBAC, it opens me up to criticisms, even though I’ve been cleared by IBAC.
“People paint you with the same brush regardless of and they don’t look at the details either. Anyone who follows my Facebook or knows me in the community sees me out there will know what I’m all about.
“I have been active, and people have said, oh, you know, he’s just suddenly become active. I haven’t. If you look back, I have never stopped being active,” Mr Rosario said.
“I just kept a bit of a low profile for the first couple of years while the IBAC investigation was on, so I could still help groups, but their groups were not judged, because I was participating, supporting, or volunteering for them. Because until the investigation is done, there is a cloud that hangs over everyone’s head.
“So, if you’re ever wondering why people are saying, why am I so active now? It’s not that. I was just waiting for the right time to be able to get back into educating our community on what’s happening around us.”
Mr Rosario said the ultimate drive for him to step forward this time was his eagerness to help his community.
“When I was on council, I saw connections that groups that were working in isolation could be working together to benefit the community,” he said.
“I made it my mission in the last four and a half years since leaving council to continue that
work as a volunteer in the community.
“What’s really driving me is that ability to get back in the council to use that to help unite a community.”
Mr Rosario pointed out that his primary focus in running for a councillor was not for the sake of being a councillor.
He said it was not the title itself that attracted him, but the opportunities to devote himself to the community.
“A resident said to me the other day that you’ve been doing the role of a councillor without actually being a councillor, without actually having any of the resources or any of the title. You were just doing it to help people,” he said.
“I guess that for me was the driver to say, look, maybe I still have something to contribute.
“That’s why that’s the reason why I decided to do this.”
Speaking of running against his former colleague Wayne Smith, Mr Rosario said: “It is what it is.”
Former mayor and ALP member Wayne Smith also nominated to stand for River Gum Ward in the coming Casey Council election, saying he has been “cleared of the issues of IBAC”.
The investigation found that he failed to declare a conflict of interest involving developer John Woodman.
Mr Smith highlighted he was the only Justice of the Peace in his community during Covid.
“They would not allow me to be a JP (and a Bail Justice) if the issues of IBAC were of concern to them. I know at the time they looked at the IBAC findings. I was interviewed, and there were no findings,” he said.
“I was cleared to be able to continue in that role.
“I’m disappointed about what happened, and, yes, I probably should have known stuff, but there was nothing that they were going to be able to follow through with charges or anything, and IBAC has said that the investigation in relation to me is well and truly closed, and there are no plans, intentions to do any more,” Mr Smith said.
“Certainly no charges in the air.
“From that day, I continued my life in the community.”
As his life continued, Mr Smith believed he had got a lot more to do and he was in his prime doing lots of things.
“I’m keen to get back in and get some of those projects and new ones up and running because the community has suffered in the last four and a half years without a doubt,” he said.
“My vision is to get River Gum back on the map because at the moment, it’s probably no worse off than any other ward, but after the administrators,
no ward was really singled out and looked after.
“You only have to drive around to see how dirty and unkempt it is in terms of council responsibilities on the side to the roads, in parks and gardens.
“And in my time off council, I’ve been very active in reporting that sort of stuff. But obviously, I had no power to do anything about it, but I continued to do that.”
Speaking of running against his former colleague Damien Rosario, Mr Smith said neither of them would have wanted to play against each other.
“I think we worked well together when we were on a two-person ward. I will only stand in that ward because I strongly believe in standing in the area that I live in,” he said.
“I’ve lived in that area for a long, long time, and I’ve raised my family in that area. I wasn’t prepared to go to another ward to sort of avoid that. I hope we can work together and if he gets up, I’ll certainly contact him regularly to get things done, and I would expect him to do the same.
“I think it’ll be a friendly rivalry.
“I’m disappointed that we’ve been put in this position to do it, but I understand why he’s doing it because he wants to be in that role, and I’m doing it for the same reason. It’s just a shame that we didn’t have two-member awards again.
“Because, in some wards, it didn’t work, but in River Gum, it worked. It absolutely worked.”
Mr Smith is a Lynbrook resident and a secondary school teacher.
Also running in River Gum is previous councillor Lynette Pereira, who served from 2008 to 2012.
“[The Ward] has been totally ignored, Hampton Park is the biggest suburbs and the shops are an absolute mess,” she said.
“The sense of community is lost, there is so much money that needs to be put back into this ward, we’ve been so neglected.”
She criticised the previous councillors - those who were dismissed in 2020 amid an IBAC investigation - adding that “they didn’t actually pay attention to what they should have been doing”.
“And that’s keeping our rates down, making sure the ward’s getting its money and attention is being paid.”
Casey election candidates: Kalora and Waratah wards
As the official council candidate registrations came to a close on Tuesday 17 September, the City of Casey is seeing new faces gearing up for this October’s elections, now just mere weeks away.
Among the 89 candidates are several former councillors, including Lynette Pereira (River Gum) who served from 2008-2012 and Brian Oates, current president of the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association who last served as a councillor in 2005.
Rex Flannery, representing Causarina Ward, alongside Damien Rosario and Wayne Smith
from River Gum Ward are running as former councillors of the 2016-2020 cohort.
Following an investigation by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC), the former council was sacked by the State Government and replaced by a panel of administrators in 2020.
With Casey having no councillors for over four years, and no elections for eight, many of the new candidates are eager to prevent a repeat of the previous party, the majority pledging integrity and transparency.
Postal ballot packs will be mailed out from Monday 7 October, with voting closed by 6pm on Friday 25 October.
CANDIDATES (in ballot order):
Kalora Ward, tucked in the northwest corner of the municipality has Narre Warren North, Lysterfield South and Endeavour Hills:
• MAZOORI, Zabi
• NGUYEN, Duc
• SMULDERS, Peterine
• SAWYER, Damien
• JOVER, Fred
• OATES, Brian Herbert
• AMBROS, Melinda
• LUWANGA, Jafri Katagara
• AHMED, Afroz
Waratah Ward, the western-most border of Casey consists of Doveton, Eumemmering, Hallam and Hampton Park:
• YAWARI, Nasser
• KOOMEN, Stefan
• DILBAZ, Burak
• ALAM, Ezatullah
• SINGH, Jamel Kaur
Damien Rosario (left), Kerrigan La-Brooy and Wayne Smith (right). (Stewart Chambers: 376968)
Young acts to rock
Young singers, dancers and bands will be shining in the spotlight at a Dandy’s Got Talent concert on Wednesday 25 September.
Artists aged 12-25 will be competing at The Castle across four categories in front of guest judges DJ Alexandre and Sharny.
They’ll be vying for prizes including DJ City vouchers, studio recording time, a rehearsal with a professional mentor and high quality speakers.
Along with the exciting live talent, there is also a performance from Sharny, a DJ set, a chill space with games and fidget toys, raffle prizes, a photobooth to snap fun moments with friends and
LOOKING BACK
100 years ago
25 September 1924
Random notes
Now that an angling club has been formed in Dandenong, it is expected that stories of big hauls will soon be told in hotels, billiard rooms and barber shops and other places where “men do congregate” and tell “marvellous tales” tales about records of various kinds. They’re hopeful chaps, these fishermen - almost as hopeful as gold mining prospectors - and monuments of patience. I trust the characteristic – patience – will be exercised to the full by “knights of the rod” in regard to giving the young trout to be liberated in the Dandenong Creek a chance to grow to a respectable size before “poaching” is resorted to.
50 years ago
24 September 1974
Final ‘bid’ on meters
Another move has been made in Dandenong Council over the possible installation of parking
tasty snacks including a sausage sizzle, popcorn and beverages.
The event is organised by young people from the FReeZA Youth Committee – which organises drug, smoke, vape and alcohol-free music and cultural shows.
It is supported by City of Greater Dandenong’s Youth and Family Services and the State Government.
Other school holiday fun includes a skate and bike clinic at the Noble Park Skate Park on Tuesday 24 September, dumpling making at Noble Park Community Centre on Monday 30 Sep-
meters in the city. Councillor Holohan said that council should make up its mind “once and for all” on parking meters and moved for a report on the Clow, Walker, McCrae Street triangle as an area for parking meters. “Meters in this area would not have an adverse effect on any trader
Binding dreams to reality
MESSAGE OF HOPE
By Imran Furkan, Muslim and Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network executive committee member
In the tapestry of life, grit is the thread that binds our dreams to our reality, even when the fabric of our journey seems fraught with challenges.
It is the quiet, unyielding strength that propels us forward, despite the most daunting obstacles.
When faced with seemingly insurmountable odds, grit is the inner fire that refuses to be extinguished, the force that whispers, “Keep going.”
Think of the greatest triumphs in history, from scientific breakthroughs to personal victories.
Behind every success story lies a relentless spirit—an unwavering determination to press on despite setbacks.
Grit is not about never falling; it is about rising each time we do.
It is the tenacity to keep moving forward when every step feels heavy and the courage to persist even when the outcome seems uncertain.
When you face difficulties that seem beyond your capacity to overcome, remember that grit is not a trait reserved for the exceptional; it is a quality within all of us.
It is nurtured through perseverance, through facing our fears and embracing the struggle as part of the journey.
Every challenge we encounter is an opportunity to cultivate this inner strength, to build resilience that fortifies our spirit and sharpens our resolve.
In those moments when the weight of the world feels unbearable, remind yourself of the times you have already conquered.
tember, a visit tot Bounce Trampoline Park on Tuesday 1 October, an Amazing Race starting at Springvale Library on Wednesday 2 October and a painting workshop with artist Olana Janfa.
Dandy’s Got Talent is on Wednesday 25 September, 3pm-7pm at The Castle, 61 Princes Highway, Dandenong; $5 for audience members.
To book an audience ticket, go to events. humanitix.com/spring-spectacular-septemberschool-holiday-program-g5txekth
Details on other school holiday events at youth.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/youth/ events
in this area as there is now, and will be when Myer’s opens, ample off-street parking in the area. It will be an opportunity for council to get some much-needed funds directly from parking and I don’t think we would be driving anybody away from the central business district.”
20 years ago
27 September 2004
Pokie losses fall
Poker machine losses in Greater Dandenong and Casey have fallen for the second consecutive year, but remain among the highest in the state. Figures released by the Victoria Commission for Gambling Regulation show that gamblers in 28 gaming venues across the two cities lost more than $195 million in 2003-04 compared to $196.5 million the previous year. The reduction coincides with the introduction of smoking bans in gaming venues in 2002.
Greater Dandenong Mayor Clare O’Neil welcomed the downturn. However, she said that the city’s losses were still too high. “Gambling inflicts a huge toll on local families and con-
OPINION
Each struggle you have faced has sculpted you into someone stronger and more capable.
You have navigated through storms before, and you have emerged resilient.
This current trial is another chapter in your story of triumph.
So, embrace the struggle, for it is through these trials that our greatest strengths are forged.
Grit is the compass that guides us through the darkest nights and the storms that threaten to overwhelm us.
With each step forward, no matter how small, you are proving to yourself that you can endure, you can persevere, and you can succeed.
Hold onto that grit, and let it lead you through the impossible.
Your journey, though difficult, is a testament to your unbreakable spirit.
Keep going—because you are capable of far more than you know.
Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong: administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662. Visit interfaithnetwork.org.au/
tributes to family stress and breakdown, workrelated problems and poverty.”
5 years ago
24 September 2019
Cool taste of success
Springvale Snow Fest 2018 has taken out a national prize as Australia’s best community event. The event in its seventh year, recently took out the category at the Australian Events Awards in Perth.
Each year it brings the snow and winter activities to thousands of festival goers in central Springvale Streets. Greater Dandenong Mayor, Roz Blades, said the win was a “a major coup”. “Winning this award further cements Greater Dandenong’s reputation as a City of Celebration.” Springvale Snow Fest has won a number of awards and continues to draw crowds in excess of 40,000 people each year. “The fact that we are able to bring real snow from Mt Buller to Springvale each year gives our community the chance to experience all the fun of the snow right in the heart of their own backyard.”
News never more vital
By Paul Thomas*
On this World News Day, we are reminded of the invaluable role journalism plays in safeguarding our democracy, especially in regional and local towns across Australia. While global headlines may dominate, it’s the local stories that are the heartbeat of our communities. Public interest journalism serves not only as a watchdog but also as a bridge between the people and their local governments, businesses, and neighbours.
In regional and local towns, local newspapers are often the sole providers of information that directly impacts residents’ daily lives. From covering council meetings to reporting on issues like infrastructure development or the success of local businesses, these newspapers perform a critical function. When journalists shine a light on important issues, they empower their communities to engage, voice concerns, and demand accountability.
At Star News, we believe that public interest journalism is essential for the health of our democracy. In an age of misinformation and dwindling trust, our mission is to provide fact-based reporting that our readers can rely on. While we operate in a rapidly changing media landscape, the core values of journalism remain unchanged: truth, transparency, and a commitment to the communities we serve.
The rise of social media has fundamentally transformed how we consume information, with both positive and negative consequences. While platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have connected us in new and powerful ways, they have also become breeding grounds for misinformation, deep fakes, and viral falsehoods. With content increasingly manipulated, from deep fake videos to entirely fabricated news stories, it has become harder for people to distinguish fact from fiction. This erosion of trust threatens the very foundation of informed communities and societies.
In contrast, local newspapers provide a crucial counterbalance to this tide of disinformation. Our journalists work tirelessly to deliver stories grounded in facts, verified by trusted sources,
and shaped with balance. When you read your local newspaper, either in print or online, you can trust that the information is accurate, relevant, and serves the best interests of your community. Local newspapers are more than just sources of news; they are the defenders of truth in a noisy and often confusing media landscape.
As technology and media consumption habits continue to evolve, local journalism must adapt. However, the mission remains the same: telling stories that matter, holding the powerful to account, and keeping the public informed. Newspapers, particularly in regional and local towns, have a duty to remain trusted sources of news for the communities they serve.
In a time when misinformation and falsehoods spread rapidly, let’s make sure the truth rings louder. By supporting local journalism, we strengthen not just our media but the very fabric of our regional and local towns. Together, we can ensure that truth and integrity remain at the heart of our communities.
* Paul Thomas is the owner and managing director of the Star Journal. He has worked in newspapers all his life and is a former president and life member of Country Press Australia.
Star Journal owner Paul Thomas.
An exciting line-up of young performers are coming to The Castle for Dandy’s Got Talent. (Supplied)
Imran Furkan, executive member of the Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network
An Ice Dancer at Springvale Snow Fest in 2019. (Rob Carew: 195902)
NEWS Author set to thrill Casey
By Ethan Benedicto
Dire stakes and high-octane action are coming to Bunjil Place on 17 October, as a best-selling author gears herself up to indulge local residents with a deeper look into one of her latest novels.
Candice Fox, Sydney’s local and decorated crime fiction author known for keeping readers at the edge of their seats, believes in reaching out, where author-to-reader relationship is key, but also for inspiration.
“I get out to places I’ve never been before to meet fans I’ve never met before,” Fox said.
“I have fans who come to every event when I’m in Sydney and they’re regulars, I see them all the time, but going to places that are a bit further out is wonderful because you get brand new interactions with readers.
“It’s about hearing those new stories of how people have covered my work, how they’re enjoying it - but also they’ve never heard me speak live, there are some things you can’t say on the radio or in an interview!”
However, it’s more than just meeting new people, as someone who writes on the move, Fox is keen for spikes of inspiration, where Bunjil, if not Casey could be the foundation for those.
“I want to see what the town is like, I want to meet the people, I want to hang out,” Fox said.
“I want to drink your coffee and go into your shops and see local sites, and it’s inspiring because I always write on the road, it’s inspiring being in those new settings and interacting with readers.
“People have no idea how often I just grab someone off the street and put them in a novel, or you know, it’s somebody at a cafe who I have a particular interaction with which inspires me for that day, so I’m excited to get to Casey.”
For Connected Libraries’ adult programs manager, Courtney Rushton, any event where authors come down to speak and connect with their fans is nothing short of “wonderful”, considering
that the City of Casey are filled with “big readers”.
“Often in the outer suburbs, we miss out on these big, well-known author events because they’re traditionally being hosted to bigger Melbourne audiences.
“We’ve had feedback from previous events where people have said that coming to them has created a deeper connection for them with the author and insight into their world,” Rushton said.
Furthermore, the event, as much as it is a meet-and-greet, is also about forming those social connections with people who read, “because it’s creating an environment for them to connect with one another through what is a solitary activity”.
Regarding Fox’s inspiration from the city, Ruhston believes that Casey has more than enough to offer, with places like Bunjil Library itself and the myriad of dense botanical gardens offering more than a supple setting for the nature of the author’s novels.
Providing a peek into her inspiration, Fox said that some things that happen in real life are often “stranger than fiction”.
“I have an eye on true crime all the time, so it never stops inspiring; some of the things that happen you can’t even use because the reader won’t believe you.
“I’m also just someone who listens all the time, someone who will ask the uncomfortable questions, [because] everyone is full of stories.”
To Ruhston, events like these are all about connection, from the readers to the author, their ideas and feelings, and to one another.
Formoreinformationontheevent,visitevents. connectedlibraries.org.au/event?id=82549
Candice Fox, decorated crime author is looking to bring mystery and non-stop thrill down to Bunjil this October. (Supplied)
WHAT’S ON
School holiday fun
Noble Park Community Centre is holding the following activities in the September-October school holidays for young people: Magic Workshop (Age 5-12), Produce to Plate Cooking Class (Age 9-12), Reuse Art Workshop (Age 5-12), Cupcake Decorating Workshop (Age 8-13), Youth Modelling Workshop (Age 13-18) and Kids Planting Workshop (Age 5-12).
• Noble Park Community Centre, 44 Memorial Drive, Noble Park. Details: nobleparkcommunitycentre.org.au
Deckchair movies
Deckchair Movies series, including Spy Kids (PG), Space Jam (PG) and Howl’s Moving Castle (PG). Bring a picnic blanket, movie snacks and enjoy a free movie screening as part of the Children’s Festival school holiday program.
• Wednesday 25 September (Spy Kids), 6pm8pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; Monday 30 September (Space Jam) and Wednesday 2 October (Howl’s Moving Castle) 6pm-8pm at Springvale Community Hub. Free event.
‘Come and Try’ sports Come and try Springers Juniors Sports programs including basketball, netball, soccer, pickleball and tennis. This program is suitable for childrens aged 5-12yrs.
• Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 23 September-4 October 4.15pm-6.30pm at Springer’s Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Rd, Keysborough. Free event. Bookings: https:// form.jotform.com/232291207560046
Dandy’s Got Talent
Dandy’s Got Talent is a talent show hosted at The Castle, celebrating the talents of young people aged 12-25 from Greater Dandenong. Live singers, dancers and bands, a DJ set, a chill space with games and fidget toys, raffle prizes, a photobooth for you to snap fun moments with friends and tasty snacks including a sausage sizzle, popcorn and beverages. Guest judges, DJ Alexandre and Sharny, as well as a special guest performance by Sharny herself.
• Wednesday 25 September, 2.30pm-7pm at The Castle, 61 Princes Highway, Dandenong; $5 (Redeemable for snacks) / performers attend free. Audience registrations: events.
humanitix.com/spring-spectacular-septemberschool-holiday-program-g5txekth
Neighbourhood Watch public forum
Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch presents a safety information Q&A. Guest speaker is Senior Sergeant Chris Savage, who is Officer in Charge at Springvale police station as well as the Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator for Greater Dandenong. All residents welcome, please bring a friend.
• Wednesday 25 September, 7pm for 7.30pm start at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Light supper provided.
Trees: A Canopy Extraordinaire
An exhibition that celebrates, reflects and recognises the significance of trees in the local landscape over time and the timber industry that grew the local community. It marks 80 years since com-
Skate and bike clinic
From beginners through to advanced skaters and BMX riders, this clinic is for you. Safety gear and skateboards provided. Bring your own bike. For young people aged 12-25. Presented by City of Greater Dandenong Youth and Family Services.
• Tuesday 24 September, 12pm-2pm at Noble Park Skatepark, 9 Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5. Registration essential: events.humanitix.com/ spring-spectacular-september-school-holidayprogram-g5txekth
munity forest planting began at Greaves Reserve, Dandenong in 1944.
Features artwork, local historical society collections and the council’s civic and cultural heritage collection.
• – Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 10am2pm extended until 27 September at Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae St, Dandenong. Free event.
Baseball Come and Try Day
Come and join us for some beginners baseball activities with a pitching machine and training activities for all skill levels.
The session will finish with a fun game and a free sausage sizzle and drink for all participants. For ages 4-17 years.
• Sunday 29 September, 10am-12pm at Police Paddocks Baseball/Softball Precinct, 250 Brady Road, Endeavour Hills. Free event.
Navratri Mela
AMSU Entertainment proudly presents Navratri Mela 2024, the Hindu festival celebrating the name of Lord Durga. Family-friendly, alcohol free event includes food stalls, fireworks, lucky draw prizes, costume awards and performers.
• Saturday 28 September, 6pm-10:30pm at Dandenong Park, 174 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Free entry.
Dandenong and District Orchid Club annual show
Wonderful displays of show orchids along with flowering orchids, seedlings and a wide range of orchid related products will be available for sale. City of Greater Dandenong Mayoral Award being presented at 11 am on Saturday.
• Saturday 28 September and Sunday 29 September, 9am-4pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-32 Buckley Street, Noble Park; adults $5, concession $2, Children under 16 are free. Details: ddocsecretary@gmail.com
NRL holiday clinics
Non-contact and perfect introduction to Rugby League for primary school-aged boys and girls. For ages 5-12 years.
• Wednesday 2 October, 10.30am-12pm at Alan Carter Pavillion, Greaves Reserve, 20 Bennet Street, Dandenong; free event. Registrations required at surveymonkey.com/r/9LDDT7MGO
Celebrate Doveton
A free event including magic show, Virtual Reality, family exercise, entertainment, animal farm, 360 Bus, Lizard Wizard, face painting.
• Friday 4 October 11am-2pm at Doveton Library and Autumn Place Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free entry.
Maralinga Community Garden birthday
Maralinga Community Garden will be open every Saturday in October (5, 12, 19 and 26 October) from 8.30am-10 am for interested residents to visit. On 12 October we will stay open longer for our birthday event, 10am-11.30am. Come and and see what we have achieved and support this local initiative. Wander through the rows of beds and see what produce members are growing. Raffle will be drawn on the birthday day. At 327 Chandler Road, Keysborough (Chandler Reserve).
(Gary Sissons: 209187)
Mendis takes centre stage
By Marcus Uhe
Jeevan Mendis will shoulder the dual-responsibility of captaining and coaching at Narre South Cricket Club this summer in the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s (DDCA) Turf 1 competition.
The 2022/23 Wookey Medal winner, who holds ambitions to coach professional sides and has worked part-time at Dandenong in Victorian Premier Cricket, replaces Matthew Brooks as the Lions’ First XI coach, and Kyle Hardy as captain, who chose to step down after three seasons leading the Lions.
Narre South was one of the feel-good stories of the DDCA last season as a rapid improver powered by a brilliant second half of the season that saw them fall two wickets shy of a stunning grand final berth in a heartbreaking loss to Buckley Ridges.
Close wins in the second half of the seasons against fellow finals aspirants in Berwick (five runs) and Springvale South (six runs) saw them qualify for finals action, and prevail in another test of mental fortitude against Hallam Kalora Park in a spiteful and heated semi final by just two runs at Hallam.
Despite breaking into the upper echelon of Turf 1 teams, Hardy believes the Lions will still be seen as underdogs.
“That’s just how we’ve always been perceived since coming up to Turf 1,” he said.
“We’ve definitely earned a bit of respect from other clubs and we obviously noticed that, but Narre South as a whole, we’ve always had that underdog mentality where we think that most people are against us and they’re doubting how good we are, so we want to go out and show them.
“Ithinkpeoplemightthink[weover-achieved] outside, but inside, we never felt like we overachieved, we felt like we were as good as anyone, and that’s how we’ve always thought.
“We were just going to go about playing our cricket and see what happens, but we never thought we over-achieved to get to that point, we just thought we’ve achieved what we had, because we were as good as anyone, and that’s just how we go about our cricket.”
All-rounders Mendis and returning former
Overseas imports Callum Nicholls and Alex Cruickshank are not returning to the club after brilliant seasons in purple last summer, as is fel-
Bandits ‘burning’ to climb one step further
By Marcus Uhe
Alongwinteroffrustrationanddisappointmentis nearing its conclusion for Parkfield Cricket Club as it gears up for another summer in the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 2 competition, with renewed expectations and pressure on the back of an excellent 2023/24 season.
The juxtaposition between the good and the bad, however, is fuelling the motivation to go one better this time around, having succumbed to Dandenong West by five wickets in last season’s grand final.
Steve Cannon, captain at the Bandits, hasn’t addressed the result as a collective with his teammates, the vast majority of which are back at Parkfield Reserve for another shot at glory.
The all-rounder and long-time leader at the club doesn’t believe he’s had to; he can see it in his teammates’ eyes.
“I’ve spoken to pretty much every player over the winter and caught up with them for a coffee or beer and for me, it’s good because everybody’s hurting over it - it just showed that it meant so much to us,” Cannon said.
“We’ll get together for a goals or season plan meeting in the next week or so, but for the most part, everybody’s just burning from it.
“It hurt us big time, but the determination of the guys coming back, they’ve got that steel to them.
“They do look like they’re pretty engaged and really want to recoup it.”
With just three losses last season, there’s not too much that needs to change, however the Bandits have made some key additions.
Most notably, Sahan Jayawardana has arrived at the club, fresh off an excellent season with Narre Warren where he was named in the 2023/24 Turf 2 Team of the Year for his all-round capabilities.
The sentiment from the grand final loss, a game in which they let a solid start with the bat slip through their fingers and could not build sufficient pressure with the ball, was that they missed a chance to put a foot on the throat of the Bulls and capitalise on the foundations.
Eager to not suffer the same fate, Cannon is pleased with the internal motivation his players have shown, making extra effort to get to training
on time and show the buy-in to the program that took them so far last season.
The external perception, however, has shifted, with the Bandits now having a target on their back and seen as one of the teams to beat.
Cannon doesn’t shy away from the reality; where the opportunity to maximise a firm grounding alluded them in last season’s decider; there is a determination to not allow for that again over the course of the season.
“The message would be, we’re now the hunted; everybody’s going to be after us this year,
they’re going to want to beat us for that reason,” Cannon said.
“We can’t just rest on our laurels and say ‘we’re going to make a grand final again’ - it just doesn’t work like that.
“The guys, they’ve played for a long time, it doesn’t just happen.
“Hopefully, we’re all on board with that and remember what got us to the grand final which was hard work, selfless cricket, team cricketwe didn’t just make it on the back of a couple of blokes doing all the work for us.
low
“They’ve played enough and they’re good enough to be making runs for us, so I think it will be them (stepping up).”
FRIDAY 13 SEPTEMBER
DIVISION 1
RESULTS
• Bulls Eyes def Rebels 11-10
• Bad Boys def Vales2 16-5
• High 5’s def Noble Park1 13-8
INDIVIDUAL STANDOUTS
• Tommy Hyland (High 5’s) - pegs of 100 and 96
DIVISION 2
RESULTS
• Redbacks1 def Spectrum 14-7
• Ruff Ryders def Outcasts 11-10
• Bandits def Stingrays 15-6
INDIVIDUAL STANDOUTS
• Shaun Price and Greg Rondinella (Redbacks1) - one 180 each
HIGHEST PEG
• Mark Blythman - Outcasts - 114
Tommy Hyland from High 5s was on fire this week, pegging 100. (Supplied)
Steve Cannon will captain Parkfield again this summer. (Rob Carew: 393914)
Wookey Medal winner Morteza Ali will provide stability and seniority to both the batting and bowling departments, with Callan Tout, the competition’s best seam bowler last summer, set to lead the attack once again.
quick Jawed Hussaini, but Zach Wilson is, and with the development of younger players such as wicketkeeper Riley McDonald and batter Vinnie Jayasuriya, Hardy is confident the club has enough emerging talent to cover the absences.
Jeevan Mendis will captain and coach Narre South Cricket Club this summer. (Rob Carew: 392175)
Johnson wins league medal
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Doveton wingman Ricky Johnson took out the Southern Football Netball League Bennett Medal last Wednesday as the best and fairest player in the Division 2 senior competition.
Johnson finished the season with 26 votes, one ahead of Highett’s Jacob Duscher, and six ahead of Endeavour Hills midfielder John Rafferty.
The medal is a testament to the diminutive ball magnet’s work ethic and adaptability across the past two seasons.
Johnson has surrendered local cricket to focus his attention in summer on building his fitness base.
Thrice per week in preseason, he would run up to 10 kilometres around Robinson Reserve –Doveton’s home ground.
“I got myself fit a couple of years ago and was playing better footy than what I had been which drove me to get the best out of myself.
“Once you start playing good footy, you see yourself achieving more so I keep going.
“I definitely enjoy the mental side of being fit and it helps put you in a good space off the field and it’s helped me play good footy.”
The tremendous will to maximise his training hasn’t gone unnoticed around Doveton, with coach Matt Stapleton dubbing him the “hardest worker on the training track and away from footy.”
It was Stapleton who masterminded Johnson’spositional switch in 2024.
While he thrived last season, named in the best in 15 of his 21 matches, Johnson was thrown around positionally which at times unsettled his footy.
The coach planned to put Johnson on the wing from preseason.
“He has tremendous running ability and can find the ball which was clearly evident this year,” Stapleton said.
“His ability to kick a goal, go back and help the defence and courageously put his body in posi-
tions at times that someone at his size doesn’t need to do is a credit to him.”
Johnson’s best form came late in the season as Doveton fell two wins short of a premiership, but an early season hiccup made amplified the magnificence of his consistency.
A concussion in preseason caused Johnson to miss multiple practice matches, robbing him of crucial match practice in a position he had played no more than a handful of times in his life.
Regardless, Johnson built into the season perfectly and quickly brought his trademark tenacity, endurance and efficiency to the outside role.
“It was about backing myself and trusting what (coach Matt Stapleton) had in place for me
and I was big on trying to help the defence rather than focussing on offence and I feel like I did that well,” Johnson said.
“Early on, I thought I was a five foot inside mid but he’s seen something and it worked out better in the end because we had a solid midfield who could win the hard balls and flick it out to me and it’s paid off.”
TOP FIVE PER CLUB
DOVETON
• Ricky Johnson 26 votes
• Dylan Chapman 12 votes
• Harley Primrose 12 votes
• Deakyn Smith 8 votes
• Lochie Conboy 6 votes
• Max Sheppard 6 votes
ENDEAVOUR HILLS
• John Rafferty 20 votes
• Liam Hasler 15 votes
• Ryan Johnson 5 votes
• Luke Peters 4 votes
• Ben Swift 4 votes
HAMPTON PARK
• Jayden Weichard 8 votes
• Jye King 6 votes
• Trent Thomas 6 votes
• Jackson Dalton 5 votes
• Nathan Langley 5 votes
Honest Hynes comes second in Morrish Medal count
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Dandenong Stingrays captain Cooper Hynes has come second in the Morrish Medal, awarded to the best and fairest player in the Coates Talent League.
Hynes polled 19 votes at the count on Wednesday night, trailing only Gippsland midfielder Xavier Lindsay, who won the boys medal with 21 votes.
It caps off a terrific season for Hynes, where he averaged 24 disposals and three tackles across15gamesfortheStingraysasamidfielder.
He also kicked 23 goals across his 15 games, highlighting his ability to go forward and punish teams on the scoreboard using his power and marking.
A strong preseason laid the foundation for a breakout season for the 190cm midfielder who some view as a first round prospect.
The consistency of his season was arguably his most impressive feat, with Hynes using his footy smarts to find ways to hurt teams in different ways, accumulating at least 16 disposals in every game he played.
Hynes was also named in the Coates League team of the year alongside midfielder-forward counterpart Harvey Langford, who finished equal-10th in the Morrish Medal with 11 votes.
Hynes was named in attack while Langford was named in the midfield.
The pair were played in tandem at the Stingrays throughout the year, with one often playing forward while the other was an enforcer in the midfield.
Langford’s power and overhead marking were features of his season, averaging 26 disposals and kicking 20 goals in his 15 games.
The team of the year selection caps off a tremendous year for Langford, after being selected in the AFL Academy and named as the jointLarke Medalist as the best player of the under18s national championships - boys.
Meanwhile, Zoe Besanko’s promising season was capped off by a team of the year selection and fifth-placing in the girls Morrish Medal count.
The key-position player finished fifth on 17
votes - eight votes behind winner, Ash Centra from Gippsland Power.
Besanko was also named in the under-18s All Australian team, underlining her strong national carnival.
For the Stingrays, she averaged 12 disposals, four tackles and 14 hitouts and also kicked 10 goals across 15 games, highlighted by a 19 disposal game in round three where she had six shots on goal.
Clean midfielder/forward Jemma Reynolds
was also named in the Coates League team of the year, and averaged a squad-high 23 disposals for the Rays.
Meanwhile, the Rays have also confirmed their under-15 V/Line Cup Squad, which will compete in a three-day carnival in Ballarat this week.
Players listed below.
• DIVISION 1 BOYS: Cooper Bell (Narre North Foxes), Will Bellinger (Officer), Ryder Donald (Langwarrin), Cooper Tisdale (Seaford),
Max Fawcett (Balnarring), Deagan Oakley (Tyabb), Zac Hamer (Mornington), Ethan Wood (Devon Meadows), Archer McCarthy (Edithvale-Aspendale), Hayden Lane (Mornington), Chester Harrison (Mt Eliza), Aidan Murphy (Narre North Foxes), James Goerlitz (Narre North Foxes), Jaie Bedson (Frankston Dolphins), Joel Taylor (Mount Eliza), Caiden Styles (Mornington), River Lonie (Frankston Dolphins), Tom DeMattia (Edithvale-Aspendale), Henry Squire (Sorrento), Jayden Gourley (Devon Meadows), Hamish Barren (Mornington), Gus Morey (Berwick), Harvey Egan (Berwick)
• DIVISION 2 BOYS: Patrick Hose (South Mornington), Brodie Oost (Berwick), Blake Russell (Berwick), Chase Parsons (Langwarrin), Sam Field (Crib Point), Billy Watson (South Mornington), Eric Michel (Carrum Patterson Lakes), Riley Johnston (Berwick), Alex Casson (Tyabb), George Hick (Balnarring), Ryan King (Narre North Foxes), Zye Bergles-Brown (Officer), Lewcas Gillett (Rosebud), Lenny Mepstead (Langwarrin), Alex Stevens (Mount Eliza), Brodie McMillan (Frankston Dolphins), James Cassar (Langwarrin), Evan Dennis (Mornington), Ben Vandermeer (Frankston Dolphins), Ryda Zerha-Doherty (Tyabb), Lachlan French (Mornington), Darcy Still (Mount Martha), Lachie Neeson (South Mornington)
• GIRLS: Charlee Smith (Rye Sorrento), Ciena O’Flaherty (Narre North Foxes), Darcey Maas (Berwick Springs), Ella Pesic (Westernport), Harli Lennon (Carrum Patterson Lakes), Poppy Seers (Frankston Dolphins), Maya Gillespie (Narre North Foxes), Indiana Busuttil (Chelsea), Olivia Bloink (Frankston YCW), Grace Forster (Mount Martha), Amber Cilliers (Balnarring), Mikayla Jane-Peters (Karingal Bulls), Lilly Brittain (Narre North Foxes), Tilly Boadle (Mount Martha, Shelby McCutcheon (Berwick), Jemma Ingram (Balnarring), Paylen Cargill (Cranbourne), Lilini Wijeratne (Westernport), Charli Watson (Crib Point), Zali Thomas (Seaford), Ella Bologa (Narre North Foxes), Shiloh Little (Narre North Foxes), Marlee Read (Rye Sorrento)
Cooper Hynes dishes off a handball. (Rob Lawson/AFL Photos)
Ricky Johnson’s reliability on the wing was rewarded with the Bennett Medal last week. (Rob Carew: 421605)
