Hog’s Breath torched
A vacant former restaurant in Eumemmerring has been destroyed by a suspicious fire early on Sunday morning (6 October).
Firefighters were called to Hog’s Breath Cafe at Princes Highway about 5.47am.
The 1600-square metre timber building was found “fully involved in flames” and the response was “escalated”, an FRV spokesperson stated.
FRV and CFA crews including an aerial appliance battled the blaze, bringing the scene under control at 8.21am.
“There was minor fire exposure to neighbouring properties, including a petrol station and several houses.
“Firefighters made significant progress in the first hour but were expected to remain at the scene for several hours to fully extinguishing the blaze.”
A Community Advice warning was issued for smoke in the area, with smoke impacting visibility on the Princes Highway.
Victoria Police is investigating the blaze, which is being treated as “suspicious”.
Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
(Gary Sissons: 436008)
Sandown scuttled
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A board coup at Melbourne Racing Club appears to have scuttled plans for a full development of Sandown Racecourse.
‘Save Our MRC’ group has taken the reins of the board, with the election of new chairperson John Kanga on Thursday 3 October.
The group is in favour of the retention of racing and oppose the full sell-off of Sandown.
It means a halt to the MRC’s controversial proposal to rezone the 112-hectare horse and motorracing facility for a 7500-home residential estate.
The new board is expected to instead sell “surplus” land - possibly in the south-west corner for housing - to help clear the MRC’s mounting $154
million debts, according to Keysborough Ward council election candidate Peter Brown.
Brown is part of the Save Our MRC group and also intends to run for a spot on the MRC board.
Aside from retaining racing, a “linear park” of River Red Gums along Corrigan Road would be saved, he said.
Despite embarking on a protracted rezoning process, MRC has consistently stated that the project wouldn’t go ahead without a members’ vote.
Earlier this year, Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny ‘called in’ the rezoning for consideration by a planning panel, the Sandown Racecourse Advisory Committee.
The SRAC recently held a month of hearings
and will present its recommendations to the Minister within weeks.
The Minister’s decision poses a “critical” issue, Brown said.
If the Planning Minister rezones the site for housing, the MRC would be faced with a “contingent liability” of about $6 million a year in additional council rates.
“The Government has skin in the outcome,” Brown says – given its housing targets and need for revenue.
“But it’s our club. The Minister cannot force the club to sell the land.”
Additionally, the club was expected to be billed for the costs of the planning panel process, he said.
Springvale North Ward candidate and ALP member Sean O’Reilly says the community was “split” on Sandown’s future.
At the panel hearings, the council had raised significant concerns, particularly flood risks from Mile Creek and Police Road main drain, O’Reilly said.
Springvale North Ward candidate Angela Holl, who lives near Sandown, was opposed to the redevelopment.
“It’s a special site that should be preserved. I am worried about the impacts on residents if it’s developed.” Melbourne Racing Club has been contacted for comment. Full story page 15
Proactive approach to crime
By Sahar Foladi
A team of Victoria Police officers were deployed to tackle anti-social behaviours in City of Greater Dandenong, as part of Operation Javelin.
The operation ran from Tuesday 24 September until Wednesday 25 September in the heart of Dandenong.
Detective Leading Senior Constable Steve Woodhouse says 60 police officers were deployed over the two days, including two mounted branch members each day.
“The operation was born out of the idea to detect and disrupt crimes in Dandenong CBD but in particular to coincide with school holidays.
“Identifying young people, who will be more out and about, and potentially while having fun that may mean they can turn to crimes.”
The operation was conducted at hotspots at Dandenong Square, Dandenong railway station and areas in between the two, as well as Springvale Town Hall and Springvale Library.
The hotspots were known to police.
Overall 22 were arrested and processed for a myriad of offences ranging from drug possession, handling stolen goods, burglary and theft of motor vehicle.
Six were arrested over drug offences and nine had outstanding warrants for failing to appear to court.
“Having that operation enabled us to have that time and effort to proactively search for crime rather than respond to it when it’s reported,” Lead Sen Const Woodhouse said.
“It’s certainly a challenge for us. We get frustrated when any crime is committed but we acknowledge drug offences are prominent and we’re committed to driving it down.”
The operation was considered “extremely successful”, with a similar operation to be conducted in the future. No dates have been nominated as yet.
As reported previously by Star Journal the latest official crime stats show theft, shoplifting, home burglaries and street crime have soared in Greater Dandenong.
Crime Statistics Agency data shows crime rose by 2.5 per cent in the 2023-’24 financial year.
Crimes involving 0-17 year olds were up 25 per cent in the municipality.
International gold for Chisholm TAFE pair
Chisholm TAFE in Dandenong has struck gold twice at an international awards event in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Commercial cookery graduate Leela Subramanium and Chisholm’s community and social services manager Raelene Stockton took out the highest honours at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Awards (WFCPA).
A mature-age student in 2022, Subramanium is now a senior sous chef managing eight kitchen staff at Flinders Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula.
She took out the WFCPA’s Outstanding Student Achievement Award.
“Training at Chisholm built my confidence and gave me several life-changing opportunities,” Subramanium said.
“Previously, I was nervous and afraid to make a mistake, but TAFE provided a nurturing space for me to learn, free from judgement.”
She is now set for an internship at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Oslo, Norway.
Her dream is to create a social enterprise restaurant that provides training for disadvantaged youth in remote areas.
Meanwhile, Stockton won the WFCPA Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion award.
She established Chisholm’s Family Violence Training Hub, initiated a Family Violence Community of Practice for trainers and led the design and delivery of Australia’s first accredited gender-equity qualification.
Stockton has devoted her career to creating specialized education and training to address family violence, and contributed to Government policy.
Chisholm chief executive officer Stephen Varty said the pair’s international recognition was a “significant honour”.
Footpath added to Progress Street project
By Sahar Foladi
City of Greater Dandenong Council is expected to deliver a new footpath on the new Fowler Road bridge connecting Progress Street, Dandenong South as part of the State Government’s levelcrossing removal project.
The new footpath will be built on the south side of Fowler Road in a bid to improve pedestrian safety and access. Works on the footpath will begin after the completion of the Fowler Road bridge.
Greater Dandenong chief executive officer Jacqui Weatheril says its collective “advocacy” has paid off.
“Tireless advocacy from Council, local businesses and residents has resulted in better outcomes around the level crossing removal at Progress Street, Dandenong.
“The Victorian Government recently announced, in response to our lobbying, that it would fund a new Fowler Road footpath.
“We empathise with the local businesses who have continuing concerns regarding traffic flow in
this area and will continue to advocate for the best possible outcomes for this project.
“We welcome the decision to fund the footpath, with Council assisting to deliver these works following the level crossing removal which is scheduled for completion in 2025.”
Since early 2023, heavy-transport businesses on Progress Street, Nathan Road and Fowler Roadincluding Australia Post - have vigorously opposed the level-crossing removal over safety issues.
Managing director at Pakaflex, Andrew Hamer says the Government’s replacing one “well controlled and very safe” crossing with 38 “uncontrolled dangerous ones” in the form of driveways on Fowler Road. He welcomed the new footpath, allowing a safer commute for some of their staff.
“(The footpath) addresses some of our concerns but it doesn’t address the fundamental problem (with the crossing closure).
“Any common sense would say build the footpath now while there is no traffic. It’s really about construction and not about the project itself. They’re bulldozing it on.”
The railway line on Progress Street will be permanentlycloseddivertingtrucks,AandBDoubles, semi-trailers and cars over the Fowler Rd bridge and onto the busy South Gippsland Highway.
Despite a report from the National Safety Regulator – discovered under Freedom of information (FOI) – that the crossing has negligible risks, the State Government remains committed to “remove the dangerous and congested” level-crossing. The closure will see the Pakenham line being level-crossing free in 2025.
The Fowler Road-South Gippsland Highway intersection will be signalised to cut congestion as part of the works. Parking will be indented on Fowler Road to increase the road’s width.
Liberal South Eastern Metropolitan region MP Ann-Marie Hermans has launched a petition in support of the businesses, sitting at 608 signatures so far.
According to Mr Hamer the businesses have also collected around 1500 signatures in its hard copy version.
Leela Subramanium won the outstanding student achievement trophy at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Awards in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Raelene Stockton won the leadership in diversity and inclusion category at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Awards in Montego Bay, Jamaica. (Supplied)
While some suburbs saw a spike in recorded offences such as Keysborough (16 per cent) there were significant drop in Noble Park (10 per cent) and Dandenong North (8 per cent).
Youngsters approach the Mounted Branch during the school-holiday operation. (Stewart Chambers: 433774)
Overdose deaths up locally
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
There are calls for more safe injecting rooms after 547 Victorians died from overdoses in 2023, including a record toll in Greater Dandenong.
The Victorian overdose toll was the secondhighest on record, according to the Victorian Overdose Deaths 2014–2023 report from the Coroner’s Court of Victoria.
Last year, 25 people died from drug overdoses in Greater Dandenong – also its highest yearly toll in the past 10 years.
It was fifth-highest in the state, behind council areas Yarra (33), Brimbank (27), Geelong (27) and Melbourne (27).
In Casey, there were 15 overdose deaths. Its annual toll has fluctuated between nine and 20 over the past decade.
In Cardinia, there were six deaths last yearwith figures fluctuating between two and 13 in the past 10 years.
Greater Dandenong recorded its highest overdose toll in the past decade, including a decade-high number of deaths involving heroin.
There were 17 fatal overdoses involving heroin in the council area last year - the second-highest in the state, behind City of Yarra (19) which is home to Melbourne’s only safe-injecting facility.
Heroin was involved in 68 per cent of fatal overdoses in Greater Dandenong.
Neither Casey or Cardinia featured in the top 13 council areas for fatal heroin-involved overdoses over the past decade. Greater Dandenong was ranked fifth-highest.
Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association, a peak group which represents drug and alcohol services, stated there was a clear need for additional medically-supervised injecting centres in high-risk areas.
It stated that the North Richmond facility managed more than 9000 overdoses and supported more than 1000 people onto opioid pharmacotherapy.
“While the Victorian Government is to be commended on progressing harm reduction policies like drug checking and expanding access to naloxone, deep frustration remains with
the decision to abandon a CBD medically supervised injecting room,” chief executive Chris Christoforou said.
“Each person who fatally overdosed in 2023
had family, friends and loved ones who now keenly feel their loss.
“Bereaved families are often left to pick up the pieces and work through the associated trauma that comes with their grief.
“This is complicated by the stigma and discrimination experienced with overdose.”
State Coroner Judge John Cain said the statewide toll was “deeply troubling”.
“These deaths are preventable and we must strengthen our public health response and increase access to supports and treatment.
“Drug-related harms are complex and are driven by a variety of factors including changes in drug use, availability and regulation.”
The Coroner’s report found a majority of overdose deaths in Victoria involved multiple drugs (71.5 per cent). The vast majority were deemed unintentional deaths.
The top contributing drugs included legal and illicit substances – diazepam (213 deaths), heroin (204), methamphetamine (164), alcohol (153) and pregabalin (78).
Over the past decade, pharmaceutical drugs were the most frequent contributors. This role had declined from 82 per cent in 2014 to 69 per cent in 2023.
Heroin-involved deaths had decreased slightly from 230 in 2022 to 204.
“Heroin-involved overdose deaths vary substantially from year to year amongst local government areas, with the exception of Yarra, where heroin-involved overdose deaths have been consistently elevated,” the Coroner report stated.
New psychoactive substances – which mimic the effects of other drugs - were an “emerging concern”, increasingly involved in overdose deaths since 2019.
These included NPS benzodiazepines, NPS opioids and NPS nitazenes.
Keysborough ward
KEYSBOROUGH WARD
Suburbs: northern part of Keysborough and part of Springvale South
Sitting councillor: Vacated by Tim Dark
Candidates: Melinda Yim, Reinaldo Ivan Pincheira (Australian Labor Party), Peter Brown, Hemara In (ALP), Tevyn Gov (Victorian Socialists), Daniel Dang (ALP), Sinan Akkurt (ALP)
No survey response: Pincheira, Gov
Save church pledge
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Keysborough Ward candidate Peter Brown says Greater Dandenong Council should back-flip on its refusal to buy a 147-year-old church at 176 Chapel Road.
The former Wesleyan Methodist church built in 1877 was offered to the council for an alleged$2millionbyownerUnitingChurchof Australia.
But in late May, despite a four-year community campaign to save the chapel, Greater Dandenong opted out of buying the site. Its decision was made in closed-council. But there were rumoured concerns about the councilbearingextracosts,suchasrenovating the building that had fallen into disrepair and been trashed by vandals.
A former Greater Dandenong mayor, Brownsaystheaskingprice–fora4062-square metre block - was “peanuts”.
Hesaysthecouncilcould“buythelot”and renovate the building, using its “substantial” open space reserves fund.
It would serve as valuable open-space in the rapidly developed suburb, he argues.
The council could also work together with the Sunshine-based Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga, which had expressed an interest to purchase at a lower price.
Other council candidates in Keysborough and Keysborough South gave strong or inprinciple support to revisiting the council’s decision, if elected.
ALP-member Sinan Akkurt (Keysborough)andnon-affiliatedGeraldineGonsalvez (Keysborough South) pledged to support the purchase of the church site.
Gonsalvez said it was important to preserve heritage. The issue had “gone around in circles” during four years of negotiations between Greater Dandenong and Uniting Church. “It’s a simple thing – if we’re to save it, what do we need to do?
“You can’t put off things because of money.Moneycanbefoundfromdifferentsources – the federal and state governments and National Trust.”
Melinda Yim (Keysborough) said the council should revisit the matter.
“If it can’t be restored for a religious purpose, it should be for community use, an aged care service or community service. I would prefer it to be in the community rather than for private use.” Labor member Hermara In (Keysborough) said he’d support the idea inprinciple, provided the council could afford it.
Daniel Dang (Keysborough), also an ALP member, said it would be expensive. “I think the council could work together with the buyer in fixing it if it’s possible.” ALP-member Alexandra Bryant (Keysborough South) said it should be considered. “We want to look after our history as best we can … it’s something we should revisit especially if residents want it.”
Labor-affiliated Sasha Jankovich (Keysborough South) was “happy to have a look at it”. He’d make an “informed judgement” based on the costs involved, he said.
The church went onto the private market last month, with expressions of interest closing on 10 October. The site is being marketed as suitable for town homes, childcare, a place of assembly, aged care/nursing home, education and medical, subject to council approval. The church is protected by a local heritage overlay.
HEMARA IN Suburb of residence:
Keysborough
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
24 years
Political party (past or present): Labor Party
Occupation, business/employer name:
Telecommunication Engineer at VicTrack
Property interests: I do not have any rental properties.
Business interests: I do not own any business.
Three most important issues for your ward: I would like to work and to be able to contribute to the improvement of our local
SINAN AKKURT
Suburb of residence: DANDENONG NORTH
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
I have lived in City Of Greater Dandenong since 1985 where we were living in Keysborough. We then moved to Dandenong South and I started my primary schooling at Dandenong south P.S until grade 2, then once we moved to Dandenong north I completed my primary years at Woorana Park P.S. I started and finished high school at Carwatha college in Noble Park North, I graduated in 2001 and briefly lived on the gold coast before returning to my home which is Dandenong North.
Political party (past or present): I am a Labour member
Occupation, business/employer name: I have just ceased employment as Operations Manager of Agcab portable cabins and am about to open my own Kebab businesses South East Kebab Station. I am the founder and President of South East United FC
Property interests: No
Business interests: No
Three most important issues for your ward: Parks and sports facilities need urgent upgrading in the Keysborough ward, and in the whole municipality as a whole.
Road safety issues around our school need urgent remodelling, especially during school drop off and pick up, creating easier options for parents to be able to pick up and drop off their
PETER BROWN
Suburb of residence:
Ratepayer for over 30 years.
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
Political party (past or present): I am a genuine Independent and not a member of a political party.
Occupation, business/employer name: I am a secondary schoolteacher.
Property interests: I have property interests but no business interests.
Business interests:
DANIEL DANG
Suburb of residence: Springvale
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? Since 2015
Political party (past or present): Labor
Occupation, business/employer name: Director. Ando Auto Group
Property interests: Keysborough
Business interests: Expanding business into
Retail Sector
Three most important issues for your ward:
• Improve local roads, public parking and community facilities to support the growing
roads and footpaths; to be able to contribute positively to the town planning; and to see if we can use our rate more efficiently without having to increase it annually.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have worked and enjoyed working for my community, starting with the youth group since late 80s and continue to work with my community today.
Why are you standing for election?
After living more than 20 years in Keysborough, I would like to serve the people of Keysborough and I believe I can contribute positively to the improvement of the City of Greater Dandenong.
What is your campaign budget?
children without the risk of receiving a fine. We need to increase the number of CCTV in Keysborough to minimise youth crime alongside eligible dumping of rubbish and keeping our ward and municipality clean. Describe your involvement in the local community: I have been involved with the communitymywholelife,growingupinDandenongand witnessing the early struggles of youth issues. As I got older, I was able to contribute to youth programs within the football clubs I was affiliated with. In 2011, I joined a club called Dandenong Wolves Soccer Club, where I worked alongside the committee to support youth through sport, keeping them on the right path. In 2013, I became president of the club, growing it to include 10 junior teams, a women’s team, a men’s Sunday league team, and a competitive senior and reserve team in State 4 of Football Victoria. In 2015, I helped a fellow club, Dingley Stars, grow by merging with them, which gave me time to step away from the presidency and focus on youth work. During that period, I assisted female members facing domestic violence and helped them through their struggles. After three years, I realized that sports offered a vital safe haven for youth and female community members. This led to the creation of South East United FC, which has been running successfully. The club includes junior teams, some starting as young as 4 years old up to u15s, two of which won their leagues, and a men’s team that also claimed a league victory this year. South East United FC was also the first to hold the GoGirls and Soccer Mums licenses in the municipality. I am currently still president and continue to help youth with issues both on and off the field, and I will carry on this work for the community.
Three most important issues for your ward:
1.family, the aged and children’s services provision by Council.
2.improved management of Council assets such as reserves, roads and active response to rubbish removal.
3.Community safety with strategic CCTV to deter and identify wrongdoers
Describe your involvement in the local community:
Why are you standing for election?
What is your campaign budget?
My campaign budget is for printing, advertising and associated costs.
Who are your campaign donors? How much
population.
• Affordable housing: as the area experiences growth and increased demand, helping to support diverse community needs.
• Community safety: including better street lighting and security cameras, create youth education programs to help reduce youth crime.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I have been involved with SEMVAC Help, to provide community engagement, support and help to improve lives for family and senior residents.
Why are you standing for election?
I want to bring new ideas with different approaches. My focus is on improving infrastructure, ensuring affordable housing, and
Limited
Who are your campaign donors?
How much have each contributed?
None
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
Former Councillor and Mayor, Youhorn Chea, has been assisting me with my campaign. Who will you direct your preferences to?
As a proud member of the Australian Labor Party, I will direct my preferences to other, genuine ALP members who share my values; however I will not direct preferences to people who are merely attempting to use ALP membership as a means to bolster the strength of their own campaign.
Why are you standing for election?
I am standing for election because I want to provide a strong voice for my community, ensuring that residents get the attention and support they deserve. Having grown up in Dandenong and experienced the challenges faced by youth and families first hand, I am deeply committed to addressing local issues like housing, road safety, and sports facilities, especially in underrepresented areas like Keysborough. My passion for community service, particularly through my work in sports and supporting vulnerable members, drives me to create positive change. By running for election,I aim to enhance the well-being of my diverse community, focusing on youth development, female participation in sports, and ensuring all residents have access to the resources and amenities they need. What is your campaign budget?
My campaign budget is about $2k Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
I have one friend who has donated a small amount. The bulk of it is my own contribution. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? Being a president of a sports club I have worked alongside many past and present councilors, mayors and MPs. They have all been very supportive to see myself excell further by seeing the work I have done in the community already. Who will you direct your preferences to? I haven’t decided yet as I am looking forward to meeting each candidate and absorbing their interest for the community and I will decide in the best interest of the ward and municipality.
have each contributed? There are no campaign donors.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
No third party councillor or politician, has assisted me for the forthcoming campaign. I am an Independent candidate. I am relying on my previous experience as a councillor. Who will you direct your preferences to?
My second preference in voting, myself being first, will be recommended for Daniel Dang and my third preference is recommended for Melinda Yim. If I am not successful, I wish them success.
enhancing community safety. I believe in communicating with our local residents and working together to create a better community for everyone.
What is your campaign budget? No budget
Who are your campaign donors? No donors
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? No one at the moment
Who will you direct your preferences to?
I would like to ask voter to give me the first preferences. Vote 1 for Daniel Dang. I would love to talk to other candidates to have better understanding.
NEWS Noble Park North Ward
NOBLE PARK NORTH WARD
• Suburbs: Noble Park North and parts of Dandenong North and Springvale, including Springvale Botanic Cemetery
• Sitting councillor: Lana Formoso (Australian Labor Party), elected 2020
• Other candidates: Will Billings, Love Agravante, Karl Rathnayake
• No survey response: Billings, Agravante, Rathnayake
LANA FORMOSO
Suburb of residence: Dandenong North
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong:
Born and raised and now raising my 2 sons here Political party (past or present): Labor Occupation, business/employer name: Teacher at Dandenong High School, Councillor since 2020 and Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong since November 2023
Property interests: Own home Mortgagee Business interests: Nil
Three most important issues for your ward:
1.Sports facilities/grounds access for all especially children and females (Masterplans Barry Powell/Lyndale United Football Club)
2.Road safety especially around schools and ensuring the Stud Road signalised crossing is delivered.
3.Continuing to ensure more parks and playgrounds are delivered and upgraded in the ward to be able to enjoy open space areas.
4.Continue to work on improving tree canopy coverage throughout the ward and the entire municipality for the health and well being of our community.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have been an elected Councillor since 2020, Deputy Mayor in 2022 and then Mayor since
November 2023. It has been a great honour and privilege to serve the community I live, work, volunteer and raise my family in. I believe I have achieved some wonderful outcomes for my community. I am an SES volunteer for the City of Greater Dandenong unit, I have been involved
Cleeland Ward
ZAHRA HAYDAR BIG
Suburb of residence:
Alongwithmy2childrenwelive,studyandIwork at Cleeland Ward of Greater Dandenong
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? Since 2020.
Political party (past or present): Yes I have my membership of Labor but I’m not endorsed. Occupation, business/employer name: Currently I’m an active Local Advocate on Board of Directors at many organisations and a school Councillor at Lyndale Greens Primary School in Dandenong.
Property interests: NIL: I only own and live at my house in Cleeland Ward. Business interests: NIL
Three most important issues for your ward: Addressing the long term Homelessness Crisis at Clow St, at Cleeland St including addressing the local Community Safety issues in collaboration with the Neighbourhood Watch Greater Dandenong, Eyewatch - Greater Dandenong Police Services & with other local initiatives. Supporting the Local Council’s Home Care Services beyond 2 years as per the local Multicultural Senior Resident’s health needs. Effective collaboration with the local Community Development Services and with Greater Dandenong Youth Services needed towards better Youth Employment Opportunities. Advocating for long term grants supporting the local Businesses including Dandenong Market Businesses and advocating for wide range of Community Development Project Grants to be allocated at Dandenong Oasis: South East Leisure, the upcoming Dandenong Community Hub, Arts in Greater Dandenong and at other localinitiatives. SupportingthelocalCouncil’sMulticultural Public Policy including Cultural Diversity Policy. Strong advocacy to State Government for upgrading better facilities/Education at Dandenong High School, local Kindergartens and at Chisholm Institute in Stud Rd
Describe your involvement in the local community:
As a local advocate I’ve completed several Community/Business Development projects and programs supported by Greater Dandenong City Council and delivered by South East Community
SisterWorks Inc, Victoria Police, The Australian Centre For Social Innovation, Foundation House Inc and many more local initiatives. Why are you standing for election?
For the last few years living and working as a Cleeland Ward resident not only myself but also manylocalresidentsandbusinessowners,whom I work and consult with every day, have the vision about the lack of advocacy for a board range of local issues that are not addressed at the local government level nor being advocated to the state government towards the development of Cleeland Ward. As a School Councillor at LyndaleGreensPrimarySchoolandasanactivelocal Advocate I put up my hand again running for the WardIliveinbelievingthatthelocalresidentsand the local business owners cast their first votes for me in October this year because everyone wants our Ward to get out of this limbo and thrive, developing in many areas. Starting from this year moving forward to the next four years I can be a stronger local voice for all. What is your campaign budget?
Around $18,000. Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
The local Community and the local Businesses support who are donating their money as well as their times which is still open and to be finalised soon I will declare all after the election. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? I’m overwhelmed by the local support from the local Community/Businesses and from local former Councillors and former Mayors like Cr Deputy Mayor Richard, Cr Jim Memeti, Mayor Lana Formoso,CrRhondaGarad,SamAfra,Cassandra Fernando MP and many more Who will you direct your preferences to? Still working on it, will be finalised soon.
I believe my first term as your local representative has been outstanding and I wish to continue to work tirelessly for my ward and the entire municipality. As a PE/Health teacher, I am deeply concerned that our community is the least active community in all of Australia. I need to ensure that those statistics improve dramatically to ensure the healthy and well being of our community and future generations. I will also continue to advocate for our refugees and asylum seekers, especially as a child of migrant parents. What is your campaign budget?
Approximately $2,000
Who are your campaign donors?
How much have each contributed?
No donors-self funded.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
in numerous sporting clubs and organisations. I have been a fierce advocate and ambassador for Monash Children’s Hospital and My Room Children’s Cancer charity since my son’s Leukemia diagnosis in 2022. Why are you standing for election?
Using my experience and knowledge as a councillor for the past 4 years. I have previously been inspired to run for council after watching former Councillor and Mayor Roz Blades AM and all of the incredible work she has done in our city for decades.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
The only people I believe to be genuine candidates, once I have contacted each of them.
AusNet is currently seeking feedback on funding to maintain and upgrade it s electricity distribution network over the next five years.
This funding will support:
a safe, reliable and more resilient network keeping up with customers moving to all-electric homes and electric vehicles
customer service improvements more renewables, including large and small renewables like rooftop solar.
Links,
New arrivals inspired by art
By Sahar Foladi
An art exhibition for young talented artists from diverse backgrounds has opened to the public at Connect Art Space in Dandenong.
The exhibition opening was hosted by the Southern Migrant Refugee Centre on Monday 30 September as part of its annual Youth Art Exhibition.
Now in its sixth consecutive year, it’s run through the SMRC STAR Homework Club and Literature Exhibition to help young and talented artists showcase their artwork to the community.
Aspiring artist Mohammed Atae has been in Australia for two years and had two of his artworks on display at the exhibition.
“I don’t have many connections with the community as a new arrival but I wish to continue in this field as it’s my passion,” he says.
A few of his works are on display in Pakistan and America.
One of his artwork, is a figure of a woman (signifies life) and a pot which signifies a materialistic product of this world which has been passed down.
Mohammed used cold and warm colour to symbolise grief, sadness and happiness and beautiful memories human share with each other.
“Life is not just bad or good but it’s a mix of both that every human experiences, not just a few,” he said.
This was Mohammed second exhibition in Melbourne which earned his work the winner or the best artwork within his age group 18-25 years.
He also volunteers with Foundation House to assist new arrivals in the community.
Senior coordinator of Settlement Casework and Engagement, Jesse Boyd says a majority of the young talents have been creating art their whole life but lack the correct platform or the opportunity to display their works with the community.
“For young people it’s very hard to show their work publicly.
“Even if they’re amazing, they have to know someone or understand how to get their work in the gallery which is not accessible for someone especially who has newly arrived and doesn’t understand how the artwork works here.”
The exhibition creates multiple benefits for the artists - social activity, confidence, a chance to invite the community into their own interpretation of life through their artworks and unlocking opportunities.
“They have the opportunity to sell pieces. Our hope is this experience really builds the
confidence for young people and shows to them they’re realised just like everyone else.”
A participant from last year was selected for a paid workshop to teach art to a group of youths.
Farishta Ebrahimi is one of the many in the group who has been drawing her whole life as a passion but challenged herself into painting for this exhibition.
She has produced three artworks, all have a dark component and a single feature of light symbolising there’s always light after darkness, drawing from her own journey of migration to Australia.
“For me, when you migrate, it has its own struggles and challenges but despite all that it means a lot to me to be able to see the light and maintain positivity in these challenges.”
After the Taliban took over in Afghanistan in 2021, Farishta sought refuge in Pakistan while waiting for her visa approval to Australia. It has been only six months since she has arrived and she’s full of hope for a bright future.
The STAR Homework club provide help to young people form the ages of 12-25 with school work, resume and CV, secure employment, assist with scholarship applications and much more.
Young artists with their friends and family along with the SMRC coordinators who made the exhibition happen. (Stewart Chambers: 433854)
Candidates count the cost
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
How much do you need to spend to win a council election seat?
Casey independent candidate Jafri Katagara Luwanga has campaigned for 12 months in Kalora Ward, which includes parts of Endeavour Hills and Narre Warren North.
After spending about $15,000 on a campaign including full-gloss leaflets, he says he’s “broke”.
“People say they don’t want to see political parties in council. The problem with running as an independent is you need to spend a lot of money.
“I’m not running to be Prime Minister, just a councillor.”
Luwanga is one of nine candidates vying for Kalora Ward. He says some are ‘dummy’ candidates – a tactic used to harvest preferences for his rivals.
He says if he runs for council again, he’d seek endorsement – and resources – from a political party.
“The council election is for people with money. I don’t have a problem with political parties endorsing candidates because it helps people like me to run for council.”
Keysborough South Ward candidate Sasha Jankovic, who is a Labor member, says he estimates some candidates are spending well over $10,000.
He said he’s keeping costs down by doing his own letter box drops.
“I hope (campaign spending) isn’t an over-riding factor. I’m just focused on my own campaign.”
Daniel Dang, a Labor member running in Keysborough Ward, has not declared a budget for his self-funded campaign. He’s confined himself to letter-box drops, rather than corflute signs.
“You need a strong financial background in order to help the community. If you don’t have strong financials on a day-to-day level, how can you be a representative on the council?”
Angela Holl, an independent in Springvale North Ward, is self-funded. She’s accepting advice and non-financial support from family friend and outgoing deputy mayor Richard Lim.
“I think the costs are a little bit prohibitive. I think that’s why there’s less people running, especially with cost-of-living pressures.”
Across the wards, Labor-aligned candidates are boosted by preference deals between each other, she said.
Notably, there’s a majority of ALP members running against Green candidates Isabella Do and Rhonda Garad in Keysborough South and Cleeland wards.
Holl has taken issue with being eschewed by independent Huong Dinh, who is preferencing incumbent ALP-member councillor Sean
Dinh is a volunteer at South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Associations Council (SEMVAC) and campaign-managed by SEMVAC president Kim Son Vu.
SEMVAC is also linked to Labor member candidates such as Alice Phuong Le (Springvale Central), Malab Hem (Springvale South) and Loi Truong (Springvale South).
“I was told she was preferencing the incumbent councillor because ‘Sean is a close friend of SEMVAC’,” Holl claims.
O’Reilly – who has publicly opposed dummy candidates – said he had no prior knowledge of Dinh’s nomination before it was listed on the VEC website.
“Based on my consistent record of supporting all multicultural communities, it makes sense that Huong Dinh would likely preference me.
“If she has, I commend Huong Dinh for preferencing based on merit and not based on a preference deal.”
Keysborough Ward independent Peter Brown was not troubled by the impact of Labor preference deals.
He said in postal ballot elections, voters were less swayed by candidate how-to-vote cards and tended to make up their own minds on preferences.
In a Star News survey, most candidates in Greater Dandenong and parts of Casey are coy on the amount that they are spending.
Some of the front-runners like Labor members Jim Memeti (Dandenong Ward) and Stefan Koomen (Waratah Ward) have set $5000 budgets for self-funded campaigns.
Greater Dandenong incumbent mayor Lana Formoso (Noble Park North Ward) and husband Daniel Formoso (Dandenong North Ward) have each set $2000 self-funded limits.
Independent candidate Ezatullah Alam (Waratah Ward) has declared $10,000 from his own pocket.
Meanwhile, Waratah independent Jamel Kaur Singh – who has been outspoken in the media after being targeted by racist slurs during the election – set a $1500 budget.
Most candidates have declared they are selffunded and not accepting donations – even those with political party affiliations.
However, Greens candidates Rhonda Garad (Cleeland Ward, $2500 budget) and Isabella Do (Keysborough South) are accepting community donations, as is Labor member Ezatullah Alam (Waratah Ward, $5000).
Independent Zabi Mazoori (Kalora Ward) has received individual donations ranging from $50 to $1000.
O’Reilly.
Greater Dandenong Civic Centre. (Gary Sissons: 344241)
Orchids steal the show
A stunning spectrum of orchids were on display for the Dandenong and District Orchid Club’s annual show.
An incredible 59 categories of orchid from 167 entrants bedecked Paddy O’Donoghue Centre in Noble Park on the weekend of 28-29 September.
Among the 14 show champions was the City of Greater Dandenong Mayor’s choice award-winning Machu Picchu from the Masdevellia family, a magenta tri-petalled beauty grown by Vuong Dang.
Another awardee was the densely-flowering ‘Peninsula Princess’, grown by Max Buzzi.
Other highlights were eye-catching Cymbidiums, Paphiopedilums, Cattleya and native Dendrobiums.
Club secretary Christine Avery said its 60 members from across the South East collectively grew a wide variety of orchid species.
This diversity was its strength. The 32-year-old club’s growing membership withstood a general decline in orchid growing, Avery said.
“It’s a dying passion. A lot of clubs have folded.”
Some species required elaborate hothouses with fans to replicate tropical conditions. Others could be simply planted under a tree outside.
The club meets on the second Friday of the month, 7pm at Dandenong Showgrounds.
LOOKING BACK
100 years ago
9 October 1924
Street Signs Please
Dandenong is a town of some size and importance, with numerous, and on the whole, well-made streets, but some of the blocks and streets are on the triangular plan. This is alright for the residents who know the town, but is a bit awkward for a visitor that wants to “look round a bit”. The said visitor starts from a given point quite satisfied that he will return to the same place easily, but before long he finds himself two or three miles away. Eventually he sights a landmark which he remembers or is put on the right track by a friendly citizen and all ends well. It would not be a bad idea if the council were to erect signs to indicate the different streets, especially at cross roads. These signs are in many much smaller places than Dandenong. The Improvement Society might give the matter more than a passing thought some of these days.
50 years ago
3 October 1974
Scandalous ….
Saurabh Sanghani and Maria Paises help celebrate the shopping centre’s 30th birthday in 2019. Three years later, the centre was bought by developer Pelligra for $145m. It has been since rebranded as Dandenong Square. (Stewart Chambers: 198101)
The non-televising of the Victorian Football League grand final surely is a scandal. For the sake of a few thousand dollars countless numbers of football fans in Victoria were deprived
INTERFAITH
Compiled by
of a direct telecast of the Richmond-North Melbourne battle for the flag. The VFL was offered a direct payment ... and additional payment from other sources to satisfy the Leagues $50,000 requirement, but nothing doing. The one argument that the League could bring forward with some credit was that direct televising would adversely affect country or junior league finals being played the same day.
20 years ago
11 October 2004
Survival bid
Harrowed Holt MP not sunk by Libs’ wave. Holt Federal Labor MP Anthony Byrne has retained his seat despite the ALP’s devastating defeat at last Saturday’s election. Mr Byrne won against his main rival, Liberal Paul Teiwes. He suffered a primary vote swing of 3.43 percent against, while Mr Teiwes enjoyed a 6.36 percent increase in the Liberal vote. “We knew it would have been difficult to win after the Government subjected the community to its fear campaign on interest rates, particularly with the number of young people with mortgages. We did expect a hit. But I’ve been returned and
I look forward to taking the challenge up to the Government for the next three years.” He said he would continue to campaign for Medicare offices in Fountain Gate and Cranbourne and to reduce the upward pressure on interest rates.
5 years ago
8 October 2019 Plaza at 30 pops the cork
The local community was out in force back in 1989 when the doors opened to the Capital Centre and many of those residents are still part of Armada Dandenong Plaza. In 1995 the centre rebranded to Dandenong Plaza which saw the old Myer store and the Capital Centre incorporated into one shopping complex. At the time, the centre celebrated with Sam Newman and a cash machine where excited shoppers stepped in to try their luck at winning $100,000 - this is still on YouTube today. Today Armada Dandenong Plaza stands as a monument to the success of the centre’s community-led strategy with over 160 stores, including major retailers, restaurants, cafes, services and specialty stores that cater for Greater Dandenong’s multicultural community.
Healthy steps to inner peace: Story of hope from India
By Sister Jacqueline Russell of Brahma Kumaris, Centre of Spiritual Learning
The state of mind is influenced by the company one keeps, the books one reads and the food we eat.
These choices are available to us all and can go a long way towards creating our contentment and happiness.
They are like having a holistic attitude towards one’s peace of mind.
The following is a story of hope in the holistic intention of a medical centre in the highlands of India.
It focuses on Rajasthan, one of the lower income states of India at Mt Abu, where the Brahma Kumaris have established the Global Hospital and Research Centre, a unique holistic hospital, supporting not only the local population but also providing medical care for some of the most isolated local village communities.
It comes from discussions with Dr Partap, the Medical Superintendent, who recently visited Dandenong during a tour of Australia.
Dr Partap says that medical science and modern medicine continue to do wonders, however the missing link is in making holistic health a pri-
MESSAGE OF HOPE
ority for sustainable patient care.
Approaching wellness from the viewpoint and balance of simultaneously addressing the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual components of health is very important, he says, in keeping ourselves in the right frame of mind.
Anxiety is increasing due to the hectic pace of life.
People seem so caught up with materialist goals of achievement that their health is put aside until symptoms of disease and ill health have reached a chronic level.
Sustainable and affordable, and in many cases cost-free, long-term improvement in health is achievable with good healthcare support and education.
Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, improved diet; no smoking, alcohol, drugs,
and most importantly having practices that will enhance one’s positivity and happiness can be available and are in the hands of the individual.
The practices of incorporating spirituality,
meditation and yoga, all of which are now more widespread, into lifestyle changes, are effective components of a holistic approach to better health.
At the Global Hospital we are trying to bridge this gap.
For example, the Hospital, along with the latest modern care, provides comprehensive lifestyle programs for coronary artery disease and diabetes.
The teaching of raj yoga meditation is incorporated into these programs.
Complementary treatments like acupuncture, electromagnetic therapy, and Ayurveda consults, are also available as part of overall healthcare. This holistic change can lead to a deeper place of healing.
One’s attitude towards challenges to our health can do a great deal in lightening the suffering.
Even though we cannot tell the outcome, when we hold an attitude of hope towards our challenges we lighten the load considerably.
• Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong administration@ interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662.
• Visit interfaithnetwork.org.au/
Max Buzzi with his show champion, the Peninsula Princess. (433863)
Vuong Dang with ‘Machu Picchu’ Masdevellia, which won the City of Greater Dandenong mayor’s award. (Gary Sissons: 433863)
Sister Jacqueline Russell.
Dandenong and District Historical Society
Charity stalwart calls time
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A quiet and retiring achiever has been honoured after more than 20 years of charitable service in Springvale.
Pat Dillon, 85, was feted and farewelled by her colleagues at a Springvale Benevolent Society annual general meeting on 25 September.
Up until last month, the ever-energetic Dillon continued to put in twice-a-week shifts at the society’s office.
She sorted and handed out clothes to people in need, including the growing ranks of the homeless.
In the 2023-’24 financial year, the charity distributed $59,000 of food vouchers and 550 food parcels – a majority being delivered to homes by Dillon.
Each month she personally delivered vouchers, blankets and food hampers to about 30 households at their lowest points.
When necessary, Dillon would dig into her own pocket to buy food for household pets –which isn’t included in the hampers.
“Born in the Falkland Islands, she knows what it is like to go without,” SBS president Joe Rechichi said.
“She’s been our rock. She does a tremendous amount of work, and she’s not the type of person who wants us to make a fuss about her.
“She’s got on in age, she’s got two sons that she wants to spend more time with.We’re going to miss her.”
For 62 years, Springvale Benevolent Society has been a salvation for people at their lowest points. Without any government funding, it survives on business and community donations.
It’s the only agency in the area that does deliveries, according to Rechichi.
Cost of living rises are biting hard, especially for Centrelink recipients.
People will only call the society as a “last resort”, he says. When they don’t have money for petrol to drive their kids to school, or their pantry is bare.
The biggest expense is home rent. Rooming houses charge $250 a week, leaving little left over
“The rich and middle classes can afford the extra expenses. But the lower-income classes have become like a forgotten part of our society.”
for groceries, utilities and other expenses for Jobseeker recipients on $390 for singles or $415 for parents.
The society is gearing up for its annual Christmas drive. Last festive season, the society handed out $15,000 worth of food hampers as well as $100 to each household.
However, age is starting to weary the society’s
15 hard-working volunteers. Many of them have served for decades.
“We do it because we love to do it,” Rechichi says.
“Our organisation is diminishing in numbers because no one new is putting their hand up.”
To donate or volunteer, contact Joe Rechichi, 0434 579 966.
Springvale Benevolent Society stalwart Pat Dillon, pictured right, with vice-president Francois Chung and president Joe Rechichi.
NEWS Keysborough South Ward
KEYSBOROUGH SOUTH WARD
Suburbs: Southern part of Keysborough, Bangholme, part of Lyndhurst
Sitting councillor: Vacated by Rhonda Garad (Greens)
Candidates: Adjin Muzur (Australian Labor Party), Alexandra Bryant (ALP), Isabella Do (Greens), Geraldine Gonsalvez, Sasha Jankovic (ALP)
No survey response: Muzur
SASHA JANKOVIC
Suburb of Residence: Dandenong North
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
Most of my life
Political party (past or present): Labor Party
Occupation, business/employer name: Management Consultant (and current student)
Property interests: Nil
Business interests: Nil
Three most important issues for your ward:
• Keysborough Community Hub (and its effective future management)
• Further enhancement, access and improvements in the sporting facilities within our city
• Further attention to the public transport needs of residents
• Increased focus and advocacy on the safety of our residents
• Increased surveillance of rubbish dumping in hotspot areas
Describe your involvement in the local community:
For the past 45 years I have been active within my local sporting, community and church groups - all based within the Keysborough South Ward. I have grown up here as I watched the area go through a remarkable transformation.
Why are you standing for election?
I have been inspired by my sister, Cr Lana Formoso, who amidst incredible personal hardship in recent years has never wavered in her efforts to support her residents and our city. As mentioned, having grown up watching the transformation of the area, I would like to work for our residents to ensure that it continues to move in the right direction and that the Keysborough South Hub is the foundation stone and success that the residents need and deserve.
This area, and my involvement in community and sporting groups, gave me the support that guided me on my path to completing university (including an MBA) on sporting scholarships in the USA. It would be a privilege to be able to help our young residents in similar endeavours and work so that they have the facilities and support for this.
Growing up, Dandenong Market was the best in all of Melbourne. I firmly believe that it still is, and will work to ensure that it grows in stature and recognition. What is your campaign budget?
Approximately $4,000 Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
Self funded
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
• Mayor Cr Lana Formoso
• Five time Mayor Cr Jim Memeti
• Deputy Mayor Cr Richard Lim OAM
• Former Mayor, former Councillor and City of Greater Dandenong Living Treasure – Roz Blades AM (whom I watched growing up tirelessly serving our City.) Who will you direct your preferences to?
To be completed upon the completion of meetings with all the candidates
GERALDINE GONSALVES
Suburb of residence:
Dandenong 3175. How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
I have lived in Dandenong for the past 40 years. I have been a Councillor for the Dandenong Ward 2000 – 2003 and have a good working knowledge of our City’s strengths and weaknesses.
Political party (past or present): Not applicable, as I’m not a member of any registered political party.
Occupation, business/employer name:
I am an educator by profession. Dip. T; Grad. Dip.Ed.; B Ed. ; M Ed. ; and other qualifications in the field of education and I have a Leadership in Family ministry qualification.
Property interests:
I would like Council to support the supply of a variety of affordable needs-based quality homes for the residents of Greater Dandenong. Including assistance to elderly and disabled residents who need help to better their properties and living conditions.
Business interests: NIL
Three most important issues for your ward:
1. Respect for the green wedge zoning uses and residents concerns about the creep of industrialisation within the Bangholme green wedge.
2. Review and enable resolve with SESH – the Southeast Sports Hub Controversy again another example of controversy of rezoning golf club issues within the green wedge space.
3. Address undercutting business issues in the more expensive industrial zone and breach
ALEXANDRA BRYANT
Suburb of residence: Dandenong
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
I am a lifelong resident of the municipality, having lived in various parts over my 32 years of life.
Political party (past or present): I am a Labor Party member but am running independently in this council election.
Occupation, business/employer name: I’m a youth worker with a community services organisation.
Property interests: I don’t own any property, I am a renter.
Business interests: I do not have any business interests.
Three most important issues for your ward:
• Balancing development of more housing with the maintenance of adequate green wedge and open space. In particular this issue is currently highlighted by the South Eastern Sports Hub Project on Pillars Road in Bangholme.
• The completion of the Keysborough Community Hub project to the meet the expectations and needs of the community, to ensure
ISABELLA DO
Suburb of residence:
Springvale
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
I have lived here my entire life. I love the people, the culture, the parks and I especially appreciate the increase of investment into better community spaces.
Political party (past or present): Greens
Occupation, business/employer name: I work full-time as an Assistant Brand Manager for Automotive and Industrial Coatings at DuluxGroup, working locally in Dandenong South.
Property interests: I am paying off my own home but have no other properties.
Business interests: N/A
Three most important issues for your ward:
of planning permit uses. I believe manufacturing is the heart of our city creating jobs and support for retail outlets.
4. To keep local government local and be accountable to residents first as opposed to other power bases by enabling resident voices to be heard and ensure I work for and with residents to better value for rates, services, community wellbeing and safety.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
My voluntary engagement with Greater Dandenong extends over 40 years and has never stopped because it is our hometown. I have served on the committees of management of many not-for-profit Community organisations in various capacities, as an ordinary member, president, and Secretary. Some of which include being a founding member of Wellsprings, founding chairperson of the Australian Indian Innovations and pioneer of the little India precinct at the dawn of this millennium, SE representative and later State President on the Victorian state Playgroups Association bringing the first Wiggles show to Springers Leisure Centre.
I have chaired Dandenong’s resident action groups and was the chairperson and Secretary for many years of RATWISE – Residents Against Toxic Waste in the Southeast taking the fight up for better environmental safety measures against pollution and protection of ground water, air, workers and families health concerns in the Lyndhurst Ordish road, Dandenong South, and the Keysborough South areas of our city. I have also been a member of resident groups keen to preserve past heritage buildings defining our city as in saving the town hall, the Tom Houlahan Centre and many others and was the preservation chairperson of the Rowan Park house and the friends of Rowan park. I have served on all my 7 children’s preschool,
local residents have the facilities they deserve and expect local to them.
• Residents in the Keysborough South Ward getting value for money for their rates through the provision of adequate amenities, quality services being delivered locally and proper servicing by public transport. With the addressing of these basics requiring advocating within council and advocating to the other levels of government.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
Over my lifetime I have been involved in the local community in many ways, having completed my primary and secondary education at Springvale Primary School and then Springvale Secondary College (now Keysborough Secondary College). Before completing tertiary education at Monash University in nearby Clayton.
I have been an active member of the Springvale Historical Society and Dandenong and District Historical Society. I am currently involved as a player and on the committee of an SFNL football club, and understand the great value of sporting clubs as community hubs.
My working life in the community services sector has been around the wider southeast, inclusive of Greater Dandenong. My work provides insight to the struggles of the most disadvantaged members of our society and how
• Parking and traffic congestion: There are parking and congestion issues in the area, which are impacting quality of life but also road safety. I want to continue the work of Rhonda Garad on these issues, particularly improving safety around schools.
• Parks and open spaces: The parks in Keysborough South are what draws people to live here. Keeping up the maintenance and enhancing them further with improving playgrounds and other features e.g. the dog park with increased agility equipment, is what residents are telling me when I door knock them on what they want to see.
• Getting value for rates: People work hard and deserve value for their rates. If elected, I will ensure transparency and value in how rates and the maintenance levy is spent.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I first started becoming more involved in
primary, secondary school associations and tertiary groups and have served my parish and Deanery community groups in various capacities. I enjoy volunteering and am a long time committed local volunteer. Volunteers do so much unpaid work. They are the life blood of a city and the glue that holds it together.
Why are you standing for election?
To champion Change and New Beginnings, maximise transparency and serve all residents honestly and fairly, as well as to ensure Council, adopts the precautionary principle and duty of care towards ‘All’ its residents and to assist enabling a Family / job friendly safe city with improved recreational facilities, sustainable business options and, an improved waste management policy city wide.
What is your campaign budget?
Very simple, I’m on a shoestring budget. I do have the habit of ‘cutting my coat according to my cloth’ as the proverb goes so my expenses in view of my campaign return will indicate will be for basic fees and costs associated with the non-avoidable campaign necessities.
Who are your campaign donors?
How much have each contributed?
I have no major donors. It’s just me, my husband, and our family kitty.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs, or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
NONE
Who will you direct your preferences to?
My preference strategy is simple. As I come with no strings attached, I do a - ‘like for like’ mutual exchange. And its first in best dressed. Who ever makes the offer first mutually gets my consent.
council work impacts peoples everyday lives. Why are you standing for election?
I am standing for election because as a lifelong local of the area and as a younger member of our community I believe I can make a positive contribution to our vibrant city as a local councillor. I live, work and play locally thus giving me an understanding of this community and its needs. I also feel council needs to ensure it is listening to local residents and providing the services that help local residents live positive, fulfilling lives, across all stages of life. What is your campaign budget?
Minimal, I am self-funding a grassroots campaign.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
As per above I am not taking donations so I can remain a truly independent candidate beholden to no special interests other than those of local residents.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I am running independently and not receiving any advice from any such people listed above. Who will you direct your preferences to?
I am directing my second preference to Ajdin Muzur.
the local community when I first took part in the School Community Involvement Program (SCIP) at Killester College in Springvale. Through my later years at Killester, I visited aged care residents, tutored primary school students after school and volunteered with Joey’s Food Van helping the homeless. After I graduated, I continued to help out with Joey’s Food Van, an outreach of St Joseph’s, until they ceased operations during COVID. Before COVID, Joey’s Food Van would go to Palm Plaza in Dandenong bi-weekly to help feed those who were in need of support and care.
In 2019, I participated in the City of Greater Dandenong’s Young Leaders Program and in the same year, won the Community Citizenship Award at the Youth Showcase for my volunteer work with Greater Dandenong State Emergency Service and also helping to deliver the Elevate Youth project.
Continued page 11
NEWS Candidate divide on SESH
By Sahar Foladi
Keysborough South Ward candidates in the upcoming Greater Dandenong Council elections are divided on the need for more sporting facilities such as the contentious South East Sports Hub (SESH) proposal.
Two of the five candidates say residents are calling for an upgrade of current sporting facilities rather than building more facilities.
The ALP-affiliated candidate Ajdin Muzur, who is also local to the area for the past 16 years, says he never found a lack of places to play sports.
But rather, SESH is being used as a “thinly veiled excuse to break up the Green Wedge”, he says.
“This will allow developers to encroach on the area and effectively break up the (urban growth) boundary, which residents of the Keysborough South community pay a premium to upkeep in the form of the Keysborough South Maintenance Levy.
“So not only will we no longer have our green space, but we may still have to pay an upkeep cost that is no longer relevant.
“I would much rather we upgrade and maintain our current facilities. What would be needed for our area is a better public transport system.”
Developer Intrapac and Keysborough Golf Club have proposed the 71-hectare SESH, which controversially hinges on rezoning the Green Wedge golf course at Hutton Road for a housing estate of up to 1100 dwellings.
Greens Party endorsed candidate Isabella Do says the council has acknowledged that there is no data on the availability of sporting facilities.
“I would request a report to clarify the situation and find out if there are shortages of sporting facilities in the City of Greater Dandenong. It’s important that these decisions are made on evidence.
“Residents told me about upgrading existing facilities like Springers Leisure Centre. Parents also mention their kids want more casual sporting and other recreational opportunities.”
She points out the much-loved half-basketball court and kick-around soccer space at Westwood Boulevard, saying many residents suggested similar spaces in other areas like the Pencil Park and Tatterson Park.
Independent Geraldine Gonsalvez wholeheartedly supports the proposed idea of SESH and the need for more sports facilities.
“I will commit to working hard to make SESH a sporting reality from the speculative proposal it currently is by enabling a council resolution,” Gonsalvez says.
ALP member Sasha Jankovic says compared to the children of this generation, he was very spoiled in variety of sports choices as a kid.
“If you compare the City of Greater Dandenong of today to the city I grew up in 30-40 years ago, the difference in opportunities that are able to be provided to our youth today is stark.
“I’ve spoken to many people in the ward who
have expressed concern that children’s sporting experiences - be it footy, tennis, cricket, soccer etc - are being compromised due to a lack of facilities and/or their subpar quality.”
While he’s not completely aware of SESH, he supports “exploration” of spaces that can create more spaces for kids to play sports “assuming they (SESH) pass the applicable regulatory processes.”
The ALP-affiliated Alexandra Bryant has called Greater Dandenong home for the 32 years of her life and plays community sports in and around Greater Dandenong in particular women’s footy.
Although she has faced the impacts of “limited and inadequate sporting facilities”, she also recognises community concerns raised about the SESH during her door knocking.
“In particular I have heard many concerns around SESH eating into the Green Wedge and the impact of the increased car traffic that will be inevitable for a facility that is not anywhere near public transport amenities.”
Neighbours have raised concerns about the 1100 dwelling estate on the golf course, impacting traffic, neighbourhood amenity and the easy access to nearby golf facilities.
The SESH website has a page dedicated to letters from their “supporters” including 23 sports clubs and bodies expressing their full support of the proposal and the need for more sports facilities.
Cricket Victoria, AFL Victoria, Football Victoria, Keysborough District FC, Dandenong City FC and South East United FC are just a few of their supporters.
On the same page, City of Greater Dandenong Council’s logo has been replaced, presumably after a request from the council.
A 2022 letter of support for SESH is presented as the views of former mayor Eden Foster - now Mulgrave MP - rather than the council.
Council speaks out, aged-care looms as No.1 issue
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
In the face of a concerted election campaign, Greater Dandenong Council has moved to ease fears about the future of its in-home aged care and disability services.
Former mayor Roz Blades has led a campaign to preserve council-run services such as meals on wheels, personal care, home repairs and home-cleaning help.
In what she says is the No.1 council election issue, she’s urged candidates to pledge not to “privatise”.
In the next council term, Greater Dandenong will decide whether to continue providing the services in 2027.
Greater Dandenong chief executive Jacqui Weatherill acknowledged it was an “issue of concern in our community”.
“We want to reassure residents that there is no prospect of older residents in Greater Dandenong being left without access to a meals service, personal care, home maintenance or domestic assistance.
“We strongly believe that residents should be supported to remain in their homes for as long as possible, with high quality supports.
“We are deeply committed to supporting our
older residents to live safely in our community.”
Many councils had opted to stop delivering the service due to changes in federal funding.
After months of speculation, Greater Dandenong had been on the brink of transitioning to a new Support at Home model in July 2025.
However in March, it decided to defer a decision on its long-term future until July 2027.
Up until that date, the council will continue to provide subsidised services such as housecleaning, delivered meals and home repairs – subject to contract extensions with state and federal governments.
Councillors were keen to ensure the “local market” of service providers could provide culturally appropriate services.
The council will continue monitoring federal reforms, which were “not within our control”, Weatherill said.
“While there are no imminent plans to reconsider Council’s role in delivering aged care services, it will be necessary to continue to monitor what Commonwealth Government reforms mean for us as a service provider.”
Weatherill noted that already many clients received services from private service providers contracted by the Federal Government.
The council provided services to about 15 per cent of eligible clients.
Meanwhile, at least 13 of the 45 election candidates were in support of Blades’s pledge.
In favour were Sophie Tan (already re-elected in Noble Park Ward), Phillip Danh (Yarraman Ward), Reinaldo Pincheira, Sinnan Akkurt and Melinda Yim (Keysborough Ward), Isabella Do, Alexandra Bryant and Ajdin Muzur (Keysborough South Ward), Andy Tran and Thayhorn Yim (Springvale South Ward), Sean Stebbings and Meng Bunlay (Springvale Central) and Pradeep Hewavitharana and Rhonda Garad (Cleeland Ward).
Blades said she’s also gained support from several Labor Party local branches.
“We’ve got people talking about it,” Blades said.
“I can’t walk down the street without residents asking me about it.
“The residents didn’t know before this before. What this has done has created a conversation.
“Is the council going to get rid of home care?
“I think it is the issue of the election because there is no other issue where a major service could be withdrawn.”
Getting to know Keysborough South Ward contenders
From page 10
During COVID, I also volunteered with a student-run organisation, Monash International Development Practice Association (MIDPA), and dropped off free meals to struggling international students living locally.
I have been a member of the Greater Dandenong Environment Group for the past two years. I’ve also been an active State Emergency Service (SES) volunteer since 2018. In my capacity, I assist with responding to areas impacted by severe weather events as well as helping other emergency services such as Ambulance Victoria with casualty extrication and Victoria Police with missing person and evidence searches.
I have also been active civically in recent years, asking questions at Council meetings and taking
part in Council consultations.
Why are you standing for election?
I was inspired to run for Council by Rhonda Garad, the outgoing Councillor of Keysborough South ward. I got to see firsthand how she was making Keysborough South Ward and the City of Greater Dandenong as a whole a better place to live. When she decided not to run in Keysborough South Ward, I decided with Rhonda’s endorsement to stand in Keysborough South Ward. Local government is the closest level of government to the people and Councillors can make a real influence to people’s lives.
What is your campaign budget?
At this point, as much as I can fundraise! Campaigning can be really expensive and with the cost of living pressures, it’s a hard ask for many
people to donate money to my campaign. I have spent a significant amount of my own money for fundraising events and I will continue to fundraise until October as every dollar will help.
Who are your campaign donors?
How much have each contributed?
I do not accept donations from businesses or corporations, nor any real estate agents or property developers. As a result, I only accept donations from community supporters and everyday people. While it means I may not be able to fundraise as much as other candidates, I am still extremely fortunate to have family, friends, and colleagues support my campaign and they are chipping in what they can, which I am thankful for.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I am grateful to have the support and endorsement of the outgoing Councillor for Keysborough South Ward, Rhonda Garad. The previous Councillor for the area, Matthew Kirwan, has also been a source of valuable advice.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
I am still learning more about the other candidates and will publish a ‘How To Vote’ by the end of September. While I ask for residents to vote for me as their first preference, I would also like to ask residents of the Keysborough South Ward to preference their votes to the candidates they believe will best represent and fight for them and look at each candidate’s merits and policies. I also trust residents to make their own independent and informed choices if they choose not to follow my How To Vote card.
Greater Dandenong chief executive Jacqui Weatherill has moved to ease fears around in-home care services. (Stewart Chambers: 304495)
Cleeland Ward Greens candidate Rhonda Garad, fourth right, with Keysborough South candidate Ajdin Muzur, second right, joined members of the public opposed to rezoning Keysborough Golf Course. (Stewart Chambers: 425389)
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES
New focus on phonics
Evidence-based teaching and learning will be embedded in Victorian classrooms, including best practice teaching of phonics in the early years.
Education Minister Ben Carroll in June announced the updated Victorian Teaching and Learning Model, to be implemented in all government schools across the state from 2025 with explicit teaching at its core.
All students from Prep to Grade 2 will be taught using a systematic synthetic phonics approach as part of their reading programs, with a minimum of 25 minutes daily explicit teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness.
This will be a core component of a comprehensive reading program that also includes explicit teaching of oral language, vocabulary, reading fluency, and comprehension.
Systematic synthetic phonics is a structured approach that explicitly teaches the relationship between sounds and letters to read words.
Schools and teachers will receive high-quality, practical lesson plans, first in English and mathematics and then in science and design and digital technologies.
“The reforms and the rollout of the lesson plans will reduce teacher workload and equip them with high quality, best practice materials so they can spend more time with their students and less time planning,” Mr Carroll said.
Evidence from Victorian schools and from reviews conducted by research organisations like the Australian Education Research Organisation and the Grattan Institute shows explicit teaching works best for the largest number of students, particularly those who might be struggling.
Studies from the United States, United Kingdom, and across Australia now recommend systematic synthetic phonics as the most effective method to teach children to read.
FOCUS ON ... EDUCATION CHOICES
Sustaining PE up to VCE
Physical education (PE) is essential in early education, focusing on physical fitness, motor skills, and healthy habits. Its benefits extend well beyond early years, becoming even more crucial as students progress to the upper years of schooling. Here, we explore the advantages of continuing PE during the upper years, emphasizing its role in promoting physical, mental, social, and academic well-being.
Physical Health and Fitness
Physical activity is vital for overall health at any age. Regular PE helps students maintain or enhance their fitness levels. Adolescence is a critical period for growth, and PE offers opportunities to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility. Prioritisng physical activity helps reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues later in life.
Lifelong Habits
Fostering healthy habits early paves the way for lifelong well-being. Maintaining PE in upper years helps students develop a foundation for a physically active lifestyle, likely to continue into adulthood. This reduces the risk of sedentary behaviors that contribute to health complications. PE encourages students to enjoy exercise, making fitness a part of their daily routines.
Mental Health and Stress Management
Physical activity significantly impacts mental health. Regular exercise during upper years can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Adolescents face academic pressures, social challenges, and hormonal changes, making PE a crucial outlet for stress relief. Exercise stimulates endorphin release, promoting a positive mood and enhancing cognitive function, ultimately improving academic performance.
Improved Academic Performance
Contrary to the misconception that PE detracts from academic pursuits, research suggests a positive correlation between physical activity and academic performance. Regular exercise enhances cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. PE helps students experience improved focus and concentration, leading to more effective learning in other subjects.
Social Interaction and Teamwork
PE provides a unique environment for social interaction and teamwork. Students refine their interpersonal skills, develop leadership qualities, and learn to work collaboratively with peers. Team sports and group activities foster camaraderie and mutual support, enhancing students’ ability to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts.
Body Image and Self-Esteem
Adolescence is a time when body image and self-esteem can be particularly vulnerable. PE programs that emphasize positive body image and self-acceptance contribute to a healthier self-concept. Engaging in physical activities that challenge and nurture their bodies can boost students’ self-confidence and help them develop a realistic view of their physical capabilities.
Motor Skills and Coordination
Upper years provide opportunities for students to further refine their motor skills and coordination through various physical activities. These skills contribute to overall physical fitness and impact daily tasks and recreational activities. Developing strong motor skills and coordination enhances students’ ability to engage in a range of physical activities with confidence.
Health Benefits
Preventive
Engaging in PE significantly impacts preventive health measures later in life. Adolescents who cultivate healthy habits are more likely to continue regular exercise as adults, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis.
Time Management and Balance
Sustaining PE programs teaches students valuable time management skills. Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and physical exercise fosters discipline and organization. These skills are transferable to adulthood, where juggling various responsibilities is a constant challenge.
Setting a Positive Example
Educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping students’ attitudes and behaviours. By prioritising PE, schools set a positive example, signalling that physical well-being is integral to holistic education. This encourages students to value their health and make informed lifestyle choices.
Sustaining PE in upper years is a multifaceted investment yielding lifelong benefits. Beyond immediate advantages, PE promotes mental health, academic performance, and social skills. The habits formed during these crucial years lay the foundation for a healthier, more active adulthood. By recognising the far-reaching impacts of PE, educational institutions can empower students to lead balanced, active lives that contribute positively to their overall well-being.
Physical education provides a unique environment for social interaction and teamwork.
Physical
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES
Outwit nits
By The Pharmacy Guild of Australia
At this time of the year, parents of school-age children are settling into the new school year – and all the challenges that this brings. While some of these challenges are easy to deal with, one of the biggest facing parents is the ever-present threat of head lice which seem to be part-and-parcel of the school experience for many children.
Statistics vary but indicate generally that between 20-30 per cent of primary school students are likely to get head lice at some stage. A single infested head can successfully infest a whole classroom and when the children return home, they often unwittingly pass the infestation on to the rest of the family. Head lice are wingless creatures which cannot fly or even jump but move from host to host by crawling or climbing. Close contact between children therefore gives them great opportunities to spread but it is important to understand that head lice are not confined to children. In fact, anyone can get head lice but they are more common in children because of their close contact. Head lice do not carry disease, but we need to get rid of them. If your child has head lice, you might notice your child itching and scratching, especially around the back of the neck and behind their ears. A bad case of head lice can lead to itchy dermatitis on the scalp, crusted sores and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. But this isn’t common, and your child can avoid it if your treat their head lice as soon as possible.
When you look closely at your child’s hair, you might see small, oval-shaped, white or brownblack nits attached to the root of the hair, near the scalp. You might also see live head lice. Live head lice move fast so to spot them you might have to part your child’s hair very quickly.
Having found head lice, the next step is to try to get rid of them and fast. Your community pharmacy stocks special combs as well as shampoos, conditioners, creams and other products to treat
head lice infestation. There are chemical-based treatments available as well as a number of treatments which are based on essential oils such as anise, rosemary, lavender, and tea tree oil. There also are a range of herbal products. The wide variety of active ingredients available is due to the fact that head lice are very adaptable and can develop resistance to some chemicals. For this reason it is important to talk to your community pharmacist about what is the right product for you or your child. Your pharmacist has the experience and training to make sure you get the best treatment. After selecting a treatment, it is important that following its use, you test to see if the lice are dead. This is because you need to be sure that what you are using is working on the lice.
While resistance is an issue, many treatment failures are due to inadequate time in contact with hair and scalp, inappropriate application methods, or the use of ineffective products. Ask your pharmacist to recommend an evidencebased product – that is: one that is proven to be effective – and also to show you how to apply it effectively. Whatever head lice treatment is chosen, a fine toothcomb is essential to get the nits out. If live lice are found in the combings after treatment, it’s possible that the head lice are resistant to the particular product, and retreatment should begin as soon as possible with a product from a different active-ingredient group. If the lice are dead, treat again in seven days using the same product. If the treatment has worked, the lice will be dead within 20 minutes. It is possible a head lice product could cause a reaction and should be used with care by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children less than 12 months old and people with allergies, asthma or who have open wounds on the scalp. Your pharmacist can advise you on how best to treat head lice and which products may work best for you or your children.
Meet the Principal
Pam Robinson
Lyndale Secondary College, situated in Dandenong North, Melbourne, is a distinguished and forward-thinking secondary college with a proud history since its founding in 1961. Over the years, the college has remained steadfast in providing high-quality education to a diverse student body. Our commitment extends to cultivating a vibrant community that actively champions inclusion and celebrates diversity, fostering collaboration between educators and learners to instil essential 21st-century skills.
Our school takes pride in its forward-thinking approach, boasting state-of-the-art facilities, including the only Victorian Government School Augmented Reality Immersive Technology Laboratory. This innovative space is where inspiration meets cutting-edge technology, shaping the promising futures of our students.
At Lyndale Secondary College, our mission is to inspire and equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge essential for thriving in an ever-changing world. We’ve adapted our classrooms to cater to digital learners, featuring an Augmented Immersive Technology Classroom seamlessly integrating advanced technology into traditional learning environments. Aligned with the Victorian Curriculum and Senior Certificate, this immersive experience transforms abstract ideas into tangible learning, nurturing a profound understanding and passion for knowledge.
Investing in both learning and well-being, we empower students with the tools to navigate current challenges and cultivate the innovation and leadership needed for tomorrow. Our Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) program offers high-achieving students a rigorous curriculum, individualized support, and guidance from experienced teachers, fostering a love for learning and positive environments. By joining the SEAL program, students unlock their potential, gaining a valuable education for future success.
We extend a warm invitation for you to explore Lyndale Secondary College by contacting us at 9795 2366
Catching head lice does not mean your child has done anything wrong or is not hygienic. (File)
Springvale North ward
SEAN O’REILLY
Suburbofresidence: Springvale
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong?
I have lived in Greater Dandenong since 2006, actively en - gaging with the local community and serving its residents.
Political party (past or present):
I have a background with the ALP but am running as an independent candidate. My campaign is selffunded,andmypolicydecisionsarebasedonwhat is best for residents, free from political party influence.
Occupation, business/employer name:
I work as a Senior Software Engineer at SecurePay, a subsidiary of Australia Post. Property interests:
ANGELA HOLL
How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong? I have lived in the City of Greater Dandenong almost all my life. Aside from a couple of years living in Keysborough, Springvale North has been my home ever since for over 19 years.
Political party (past or present): I am proudly Independent. I ran in the last election as an Independent candidate and will run again as an Independentnow.Ihaveneverbeenpartofapoliticalparty.
Occupation, business/employer name: Senior Finance Analyst, at a Telecommunications company.
Property interests: I proudly purchased my first home in Springvale North.
Business interests: None.
Three most important issues for your ward:
I own property in Springvale, where I reside, and also have an investment property in Noble Park.
Business interests:
My primary focus is my role as a councillor, and I have no external business interests that conflict with my duties.
Three most important issues for your ward:
1. Doing everything possible to ease the cost of living, including keeping rates low and cutting unnecessary council expenditure.
2. Enhancing community safety through crime prevention programs and initiatives.
3. Focusing on the essentials that residents want—improving roads, footpaths, parks, libraries, andtacklingrubbishdumpingtokeepourcommunity clean.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have been deeply involved in the Greater Dandenong community for many years. I have served as
Bringing recognition to Springvale North Wardsince I ran in the last election, many residents have reached out to me concerned that we haven’t received as much focus as other Greater Dandenong areas.Weurgentlyneedimprovementinourroads, infrastructure, parks and safety.
Bringing an inclusive and balanced voice to Council which our Ward does not have - so our community is heard, consulted and well-represented. Support for residents, businesses, local groups and other members of our community who are facing real cost of living pressures.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I love our community and have always tried to help our area where I can. Over the past four years, I have been on boards of Springvale Learning and Activities Centre (SLAC) and Noble Park Community Centre (NPCC). I’ve advocated with my fellow residents up to VCAT against a proposed large development in our area, where we helped to
Mayorandbeenastrongadvocateforlocalprojects that enhance services and economic development. For ten years I was the President of Springvale Rise Primary School, working closely with the school community. I regularly engage with residents and groups to ensure their needs are met, and I consistently advocate for improvements where needed. Why are you standing for election?
I’m standing for re-election to continue the work I’ve been doing to ease the cost of living by keeping rates and fees down. There’s still more to be done to reduce traffic and parking congestion, improve community safety, and cut unnecessary council expenses. I’m focused on fighting rubbish dumping, cleaning up our streets, and ensuring residents are consulted on important decisions. I will continue advocating for critical infrastructure improvements, like fixing the Princes Highway and Springvale Road intersection, and consulting with the community on the future of Sandown Racecourse.Mygoalistomakesureservicesareefficient
voice concerns of increased traffic, congestion and infringement upon neighbourhood character. I’ve volunteered as a tutor at a local homework club, helping students from migrant and refugee backgrounds. I’ve volunteered at local school events as a guest speaker and panelist, to help speak to our students.
Why are you standing for election?
Springvale North has been my home for over 19 years and it means a great deal to me to protect it. We need a true local representing us on Council, someone who understands first hand the issues we face. I am proud to stand as a female candidate, ready to bring a fresh perspective to our Council.
I am also proudly Independent and not affiliated with any political parties, as I strongly believe we need to focus less on politics and more on caring for our community. Professionally, my qualifications in both Law and Commerce from Monash University will make me an effective councillor, as
Sandown redevelopment vision sidelined
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
The full redevelopment of Sandown Racecourse appears to be scuttled, after a successful board coup at Melbourne Racing Club.
The ‘Save Our MRC’ group has taken the reins of the board, with the election of new chairperson John Kanga on Thursday 3 October.
The group is in favour of the retention of racing and oppose the full sell-off of Sandown.
ItmeansahalttotheMRC’scontroversialproposal to rezone the 112-hectare horse and motor-racing facility for a 7500-home residential estate. The new board is expected to instead sell “surplus” land - possibly in the south-west corner for housing - to help clear the MRC’s mounting debts.
The partial sell-off wouldn’t impact on racing at the iconic race-course.
Keysborough Ward council election candidate
Peter Brown is part of the Save Our MRC group and also intends to run for a spot on the MRC board.
“It’s a terrific result,” he says.
Aside from retaining racing, it would save a “linear park” of River Red Gums, which would have made way for a widened Corrigan Road.
Despite embarking on a protracted rezoning process, MRC has consistently stated that the project wouldn’t go ahead without a members’ vote.
“They didn’t go to the members first (before applyingfortherezoning)becausethememberswould have told them to nick off,” Brown said.
“The then-board leadership tried to instead later present members with a fait accompli with Sandown and the $250 million Grand Pavilion at Caulfield.”
Earlier this year, Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny‘calledin’therezoningforconsiderationbyaplanningpanel,theSandownRacecourseAdvisoryCom-
mittee. The SRAC recently held a month of hearings andwillpresentitsrecommendationstotheMinister within weeks.
The Minister’s decision poses a “critical” issue, Brown said. If the Planning Minister rezones the site, the MRC would be faced with a “contingent liability” of about $6 million a year in additional council rates.
“The Government has skin in the outcome,” Brown says – given its housing targets and need for revenue.
“But it’s our club. The Minister cannot force the club to sell the land.”
Additionally, the club was expected to be billed for the costs of the planning panel process, he said.
This is on top of its “mountain” of debts soaring from $80 million to $154 million in the past year
while enhancing the great things our community already offers.
What is your campaign budget?
I prefer not to disclose my campaign budget at this stageforcompetitivereasons,butI’mhappytoprovide full transparency after the election.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
I don’t accept donations and prefer to be entirely self-funded, ensuring my campaign remains independent and accountable to the community. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I seek advice from a variety of people, including current MPs and councillors.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
Idon’tbelieveindirectingpreferences.Iencourage voters to make their own informed decisions on preference allocation.
I understand the complex budgets and legislation our Council deals with.
What is your campaign budget?
I am using my own personal money, so my campaign budget is self-funded and small.
Who are your campaign donors?
Howmuchhaveeachcontributed?Mycampaignis Independent, meaning I am using my own personal savings to fund my campaign. I am not accepting donations to ensure integrity of my decisions. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
Cr Richard Lim is a family friend and before running, he has given me general advice about community work. However I am running in this election as an Independent candidate.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
Please see my facebook page (facebook.com/hollangela) for my finalised preferences.
The MRC had heavily borrowed, based on expected rises in property values at Sandown, Brown said.
Springvale North Ward candidate and ALP member Sean O’Reilly says the community was “split” on Sandown’s future. “I have received phone calls from residents at all hours of the day, complaining about the noise from car racing events.
“On the other hand, some residents were open to the idea of redevelopment, provided that the VictorianGovernmentcommitstoupgradingthesurrounding road infrastructure to handle the increased traffic flow.” At the panel hearings, the council had raised significant concerns, particularly flood risks from MileCreekandPoliceRoadmaindrain,O’Reillysaid. Springvale North Ward candidate Angela Holl, wholivesnearSandown,wasopposedtotheredevelopment. “It’s a special site that should be preserved.” Melbourne Racing Club has been contacted for comment.
registertoday
Suburbs: northern parts of Springvale including Sandown, part of Noble Park Sitting councillor: Sean O’Reilly (Australian Labor Party), elected 2012-present
Other candidates: Huong Dinh, Angela Holl No survey response: Dinh
WHAT’S ON
Small Business Bus
Business advisors from Monarch Institute will offer free, confidential 45-minute sessions to help you start, grow, or transform your small business. Bookings are essential. However, walk-ins are also welcome for our Bus Concierge service, which provides general information about the support available from Business Victoria. Proudly hosted by the City of Greater Dandenong in partnership with Business Victoria and Monarch Institute.
· Tuesday 8 October 10am-4pm at Dandenong Market, 22 Clow Street, Dandenong. Free event. Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greaterdandenong-council/events/small-business-bus Deckchair movies
Deckchair Movies series, including Migration (G), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (PG). Bring a picnic blanket, movie snacks and enjoy a free movie screening as part of the Children’s Festival school holiday program.
· Wednesday 9 October 6pm-8pm (Migration) at Harmony Square, Dandenong and Friday 11 October 6pm-8pm (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) at Springvale Community Hub. Free event. Soccer Mums
This fun-filled program offers a unique chance for women and gender-diverse people of all ages and backgrounds to have fun, meet new people and learn basic football skills in a social, judgmentfree environment. Presented by Reclink, Monash Health, Football Victoria and the City of Greater Dandenong.
· Wednesdays, 9 October to 27 November (8 weeks) 10.30am-11.30am at Ross Reserve, 9 Memorial Drive, Noble Park; free event. Register at football.com.au/play/Pick-your-location/Cityof-Greater-Dandenong
Springvale Urban Harvest
Come along to swap excess homegrown produce and gardening extras and meet like-minded growers in the area. Supported by The Greater Dandenong Seed Library and the Springvale Community Hub Clothes Swap.
· Second Saturday of the month (next 12 October) 1pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Pimp my Tee
Does your favourite tee have stains on it? Are your jeans are so well worn that they have holes in them, but you don’t want to part with them? A
Jacqui Swallow’s book The Bipolar Runner. Bipolar Runner book launch Join author Jacqui Swallow for the launch of her memoir The Bipolar Runner. · Friday 11 October, 6pm-8pm at The Corrigan Room, Sandown Park Hotel, cnr Corrigan Road and Princes Highway, Noble Park. RSVP to form.jotform. com/242400699794871
Fitting Connection will show you how to personalise your clothing with slashing, braiding and fun patches. It will also accept textiles for recycling, including clothes, soft toys, underwear, shoes, hats. Items must be clean and dry. Workshop is for ages 16+.
· Saturday 12 October, 2pm-4pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au/e/ sustainability-saturdays-at-the-hub-pimp-mytee-tickets-895034882427
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 October 12 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.
· 327 Chandler Road, Keysborough (Chandler Reserve).
Friends of Red Cross
Hallam Friends of Red Cross monthly meeting. Enjoy a chat and cupper in a very friendly environment. All welcome.
· Tuesday 15 October, 10.30am-12pm at Hallam Community Learning Centre, 56 Kays Avenue Hallam. Details: Robert Read, 0455 566 570.
U3A Dandenong expo
U3A Dandenong is celebrating our 30th Anniversary, with Dandenong-based seniors’ clubs presenting what they offer. Activities and demonstrations include line dancing, exercise class, singing in English and Italian, games like Scrabble, Mahjong and Rummy Kub, art displays, a plant stall and much more. Refreshments include a Devonshire Tea at a small cost.
· Friday 18 October, 10am-noon at Gloria Pyke Netball Stadium, at Greaves Reserve, free entry. Details: 0494 018 356 Open Day
Hallam Community Learning Centre’s Open Day features face painting, live animal show, kids crafts, gardening workshop, food trucks, performances from local dance and music groups. Come along, have some fun and enjoy a family outing while learning about the community centre.
· Saturday 19 October 10am-2pm at Hallam Community Learning Centre, 56 Kays Avenue, Hallam. Details: 9703 1688.
Soccer registrations open Expressions of interest open for new players across all age groups at Springvale City Soccer Club Miniroos 7-12, Juniors 13-16, Boys and Girls
Youth 17-23, as well as mens and womens’ thirds, reserves and seniors. Miniroos and juniors training powered by No Limits Aquila Academy.
· Details: springvalecitysc.com.au/ Dandenong Employment Hub
Visit the Dandenong Employment Hub Pop-Up to get help with your employment journey. The Hub
provides free, personalised support for resume and cover letters, training and education pathways, job searching and skills workshops.
· Tuesdays and Wednesdays (until 9 October), 10am-4pm at 228-234 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Details: GameChange, 8571 1000 or gamechange@cgd.vic.gov.au
Probus Sandown club
Probus Sandown meets on the second Monday every month at 10.15am. All welcome.
· Details: 9548 4809.
Awareness Meditation Meditation brings stillness, harmonises body and soul and connects to meaning.
· Mondays (during school term) 2.30pm–3.30pm at The Open Door, 110 Ann St, Dandenong; suggested gold coin donation. Deatils: 9791 8664 or Theopendoor@ssjg.org.au
Come Dance with Me Line Dancing
Come along and learn tips and techniques to this line dancing activity. Learn it well and learn from scratch from patient instructor. Suitable and tailored for all ages. No partner necessary. Wear casual clothing, bring water bottle, closed shoes and positive attitude.
· Tuesdays from 5.45pm-6.30pm (school terms only) at Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough; $10 prepaid classes / $15 casual attendance a five-week package that can be repeated. Details: 0412 296 827 or mariepietersz@hotmail.com
Noble Park Probus
A warm invitation is extended to anyone in the local community who is aged 55 and over, not working full time to visit us with a view to becoming a member at Noble Park Combined Probus Club. Meets monthly for morning tea and an interesting guest speaker. Also special lunches, day trips and extended trips such as to Bright. We make sure we promote the Probus core values of ‘Friendship, fellowship and fun’.
· First Monday of the month, 10am at Club Noble. Details: Roslyn, rgrassham07@gmail.com or 0410628249.
Dandenong senior activities
Dandenong over 60’s Club (but over 50s are welcome). Join us for fun and games.
· Mondays 1pm-4pm (except public holidays) at The Dandenong Club, cnr Stud and Heatherton roads. Details: Carol, 0431 755 466
International Turf 3 flavour
By Marcus Uhe
A retired international superstar is set to help Hampton Park emerge from Turf 3 obscurity in the Dandenong District Cricket Association this summer.
Tillakaratne Dilshan has joined the club as a captain-coach, hoping to lift them from the bottom of the table last summer.
The 47-year-old averaged 41 with the bat in 87 Test matches for Sri Lanka across a brilliant career and played more than 400 international limited overs games during his time in national colours.
Many sides have had big off-seasons and with Coomoora moving up the grades on the back of success last summer, there’s a vacancy for supremacy at the peak of the Division.
Here’s how it’s shaping up.
SILVERTON
LAST SEASON: Fifth
COMING: Charith Anthony (St Mary’s/Melbourne Sixers), Dikin Patel (Berwick), Hemal Ratnayake, Harkanwal Singh (Berwick), Harsha Dampahhalage (Melbourne Sixers)
GOING: Rasdev Singh (Clayton), Mandeep Premi, Davandeep Premi
STAYING: Mala Gamage, Dylan Hayes, Robert North, Mathew Wall.
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Hemal Ratnayake, Harkanwal Singh, Mala Gamage
Silverton captain-coach Rob North’s second season at the helm of the Bakers is shaping to be significantly different to his first.
With more than 32 players cycling through the first XI last summer and only a handful reaching double-figure appearances, continuity proved impossible to build and saw Silverton finish fifth, missing finals qualification for a second straight year.
But North is steadfast in his commitment to learn from the issues that plagued the club last summer and has brought players from higher grades of the DDCA to help arrest the issue.
Bowlers, Harkanwal Singh and Dikin Patel come to WJ Turner Reserve from Berwick and Charith Anthony from St Mary’s, both Turf 1 clubs, to offer leadership and seniority to assist North on and off the field.
Batter Hemal Ratnayake returns to the club he made the Turf 3 Team of the Year playing for in the summer of 2022/23 after a season away, and Mathew Wall has committed to a full season as a Baker after only nine last summer.
“We’ll be a lot more settled and have more continuity this year, so that’s what we’re excited about,” North said.
“We’ve got about 14/15 blokes that can play ones, so it’s going to be good competitive cricket for us.
“It was my first dig at it last year as captaincoach (last season) and I kind of just let people do what they wanted to do.
“I’ve set the standard - we’ll all work together but I’m incharge, so we’ve all got to be on the same page.”
LYNBROOK
LAST SEASON: Fourth
COMING: Jacob Stevens (England), Henry Ware (England)
GOING: Taj Power (Frankston Peninsula), Rohith Chapalamadugu (Kingston-Hawthorn)
STAYING: Jay Walia, James Kellett, Jatinder Singh
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jatinder Singh, Jacob Evans, Jay Walia
Shane D’Razario did not mince his words when asked about Lynbrook’s goals for 2024/25.
“Finals is a must.”
Adamant to build on last season’s fourth-place finish that qualified them for an eight-wicket thrashing at the hands of a rampant Coomoora, the Lakers are looking to youth to carry the club into the next generation.
It’s a move championed by D’Razario with the long-term goal of moving the club up the divisions.
“We need to keep moving this club forward,” he said.
“Ideally we don’t want to be playing Turf 3 forever and a day, so getting up the grades with Lynbrook Cricket Club is something I would love to do.
“Hanging onto kids in this generation is be-
coming a battle for a lot of cricket clubs and I’m trying to get on the front foot and give the kids a bit more opportunity to play on Turf with senior cricketers.
“When I say young, we’ve got some very talented, not only 16 but 14-year-old kids that are going to push through, start at high synthetic and look to play a lot of Turf sides.”
A pair of promising talents in Taj Power and Rohith Chapalamadugu are big losses, but their two leading all-rounders from last summer, in Jatinder Singh and James Kellett, remain with the Lakers to guide those youngsters forward.
NARRE NORTH
LAST SEASON: Fourth in Turf 4
COMING: Kiruba Sathiyaseelan (Glen Waverley), Dylan Rowney (Tatura)
STAYING: James Webb, Fazmin Mohamed, Joe Connell, Aydin Akin
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Kiruba Sathiyaseelan, Aydin Akin, Fazmin Mohamed
The dissolution of Turf 4 presents an opportunity for Narre North in the DDCA’s third division this summer, and one they’re taking with both hands.
Leading the club as a playing-coach is Kiruba Sathiyaseelan, who comes with Premier Cricket Victoria pedigree from his time at Casey South Melbourne, and most recently at Glen Waverley Hawks in the Box Hill Reporter District Cricket Association.
Despite not playing last summer, Sathiyaseelan will dig the kit out and take on player-coach duties in an attempt to lead Narre North up the grades.
“We don’t want to go into a new season with the mindset of trying to stay in Turf 3, because these guys were in Turf 4 last season and I think because of some reshuffling of other clubs, we got into Turf 3,” Sathiyaseelan said.
“We’re not wanting to just stay in for the sake of it, we want to try to win the flag if we can.
“If it comes off, great, we’ve just got to try and make sure we try to set ourselves up for success not only this year but the following years as well.
“We’re just trying to get the right players at the club with the right intentions, and from there if we can develop the environment and culture at Narre North, that’s what we’re hoping for.”
Aydin Akin and Fazmin Mohamed did the majority of the damage with the ball in Turf 4 last summer, taking 19 wickets apiece, with Akin also second for total runs with 222.
DOVETON
LAST SEASON: Seventh
COMING: Hassan Ali (North Dandenong)
STAYING: Hamed Azadzoi, Farhad Azad, Naser Azadzoi
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Hamed Azadzoi, Hassan Ali, Naser Azadzoi
Winds of change sweeping through Doveton is
BERWICK SPRINGS
LAST SEASON: runner up
COMING: Josh Amsterdam, Hamit Sohota
GOING: Scott Lindsay (personal)
STAYING: Braydon Hillman, Steve Lawrie, Jackson Marie, Riley Hillman, Ethan Marinic, Radomir Badzoka, Harry Fernando, Shalika Karunanayake
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jackson Marie, Harry Fernando, Riley Hillman
Falling 120 runs shy of Coomoora in the grand final was a disappointing way for Berwick Springs’ season to end, but one that will set the benchmark for summers to come - starting in 2024/25.
Captain Braydon Hillman is under no illusions that his side comes into this summer with a target on their back, after a brilliant run to the grand final back in March.
But with success comes high expectations, and Hillman is adamant that the last day of the year is where they want to be again - just with a different result.
“We’ll be pretty flat if we’re not playing in a grand final again,” he said.
“That’s where we all want to be as a club, that’s where we all expect ourselves to be and if we’re not there, it’s probably a failure.”
Key to reaching the final day will be sourcing runs and wickets from a wider array of contributors on a consistent basis.
opening the door for new opportunities this summer.
Keen to avoid missing the finals once again, a strong recruiting effort has seen 40 new players register for a huge summer at Eumemmerring Park.
Naser Azadzoi has risen the ranks to take the reigns as captain this summer and a new management team is looking forward to a potentially bright future for the club.
“Last year we finished bottom of the ladder so our aim is to make the top four,” Azadzoi said.
“We have got some new players from different clubs and we’ve got some players to play for Doveton.
“They’re very excited.
“This year will be a tough competition but we’re ready for it.”
FOUNTAIN GATE
LAST SEASON: Third
COMING: Surya Pratap (Canterbury)
GOING: Rodni Kumara, Ted Khandawala, Ray Pal (injury)
STAYING: John Mirranay, Karan Singh
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Karan Singh, John Mirranay, Surya Pratap
Fountain Gate is embarking on the first of a three-year plan under new coach Ray Pal, with a promise to play an exciting and entertaining brand of cricket this summer.
Pal replaces Ted Khandawala who, along with veteran Rodni Kumara, both departed the club over the winter months.
Pal, who will spend the majority of the summer on the sidelines recovering from injuries, is looking to implement building blocks for sustained success at the Gators this summer, with the end goal of not only climbing the grades, but maintaining their place.
“We’d like to go up, but we want to ensure that when we do go up, we do have a solid base of players that can, one, keep us up there and two, be very competitive once we go up a division,” Pal said.
“It’s not all about winning games, it’s more about everyone buying into the club philosophy and vision.
“If we can get early success, that would be amazing, but the type of cricket and the club philosophy on and off-field is really important to us.”
Karan Singh will captain the side and under his and Pal’s stewardship, there’s ambitions to play some eye-catching cricket in Turf 3, with a particular focus on improving their fielding.
“This season we’re bringing a bit of flair into the squad and eccentricity,” he said.
“Traditionally we’re quite poor in the one-day games and we’ve recruited to be exciting.
“I think we’re going to be one of the fun teams to watch, the way we play our cricket, and that’s exciting.”
Jackson Marie took the competition by storm last summer with 737 runs and three hundreds, nearly 200 more than the second-best batter in the competition and close to 350 more than the Titans’ next highest run scorer in Riley Hillman.
But as good as he is, Berwick Springs doesn’t want to rely on him to bail them out of trouble when the going gets tough.
Depth at the club is strong, with many players from last season’s grand final run returning for another shot at glory, and with consecutive Turf 3 Reserves premierships under their belt, Hillman is confident they have enough weapons in the arsenal.
“As a batting group, we need more people to contribute and bat around Jack,” he said.
“Whether Jack scores 700, 900 or 300 runs for the year, we’re pretty confident that we’ve got the team that can go out and get it done.
“We’ve got six of the best batters in the competition up there and on any day, anyone can bat us to victory.”
KEYSBOROUGH
LAST SEASON: relegated from Turf 2
COMING: Jack O’Brien
GOING: Shanaka Perumpuli
STAYING: Christo Otto, Ashan Fernando, Tobey Harkin, Jonathan Mohamed, Nanumeeya Perera, James Wright
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Christo Otto, Ashan Fernando, Jack O’Brien
Keysborough has no intention of staying in Turf 3 for longer than one summer.
Along with Berwick Springs, Lynbrook and Fountain Gate, they enter this summer as one of the teams to beat in Turf 3, with many players remaining from last season’s Turf 2 team.
Keysborough didn’t secure a win until after the Christmas break, putting themselves on the back foot immediately, with wins in the back half of the year against Cranbourne and Parkmore not enough to spare them from slipping down the grades.
Christo Otto, who topped the runs scorers list and took the third-most wickets for the club last summer, is back for another season as captain, but Shanaka Perumpuli, the only other player to eclipse 200 runs, has departed.
Otto says closing the gap between their best and worst will be the key to winning their way back to Turf 2.
“(Getting back to Turf 2) is obviously the main goal, but just being competitive and playing finals this year will be one of the main goals, being more consistent,” Otto said.
“We had a lot of games last year where we either batted well or bowled well, we didn’t do both very well.
“In those games, if we batted well, we bowled really badly, and if we bowled well, we batted really badly.
“Finals is the first goal, and getting back to Turf 2 is the main goal.”
Former Sri Lankan international Tillakaratne Dilshan will captain-coach Hampton Park this summer. (Stewart Chambers: 225296)
SPORT Responsibility fits for Riley
By Marcus Uhe
At just 23-years-old, Riley Siwes will, in the coming weeks, add ‘coached former international cricketers’ to his already impressive cricketing CV.
With Dandenong West captain-coach Anthony Brannan unavailable in the opening three rounds of the new Dandenong District Cricket Association season, the responsibilities will fall on the shoulders of the young leg-spinning allrounder to guide the side in its early conquests in Turf 1.
It means that the likes of Nuwan Kulesekara and Malinga Bandara will be shepherded by his decisions on the field, despite the significant disparity in both age and experience.
The man in the hot seat, however, does not see the dynamic playing out that way, believing the collective experience amongst the senior figures in the group will serve as a major asset.
“There are times where we might move their position in the field or change them in the batting lineup, but as far as that goes, you’re not going to tell an international cricketer what to do on the
cricket field,” he laughed.
“When something needs to happen, they’ll come in and have their say and I’m nearly going
to go with it 100 per cent of the time.
“There definitely are no reservations (about leading them); we let them do what they need to do.
“That was one of our strengths last year - we had ‘Branno’ (Brannan), myself, Kulesekara, Bandara, Shaun Weir, Matt Collett, all bouncing ideas off each other, all wanting to have a say.
“It’s just about making the right call at the right time.”
The vice-captain of last season’s team that claimed the Turf 2 premiership, leadership is in Siwes’ blood.
Part of the decision to move back to the Bulls in 2023 after two seasons at Berwick was to further his leadership capabilities and advance his pedigree in that capacity.
In taking the dual roles, he’ll follow in the footsteps of his father, Greg, a vaunted figure in the region on the back of his coaching tenures in footballing and cricket circles, and is one of the greatest to wear the Bulls’ colours.
Having led junior teams during adolescence as a player, and coached them in his early adult
Gritty Gamage gets Panthers going again
By Marcus Uhe
A fighting half-century from emerging Dandenong batter Dhanusha Gamage in the Panthers’ opening round of the 2024/25 Premier Cricket Victoria season will be consigned to the annals of history after the clash at Shepley Oval on Saturday was abandoned due to weather conditions.
With St Kilda winning the toss and asking the home side to bat in the first innings of the oneday contest, Gamage added stability in the middle order after the top three failed to fire.
Brett Forsyth (9), Matthew Wilson (27) and
Shobit Singh (26) were all removed without making significant inroads, leaving Gamage to steer in the innings through its back end.
He added 67 runs for the fourth wicket with Joshua Slater before numbers six to nine, including the returning James Nanopoulos, all fell for single figures, as the Panthers crawled to 9/201 from their 50 overs.
Gamage reached 53 from 92 deliveries, continuing on from his breakout Summer last season when he made the First XI Team of the Year despite making his First XI debut in round two.
St Kilda’s innings was abandoned before a
ball was bowled, meaning the two sides split the points.
Just two of the nine round one fixtures could be completed due to Saturday’s weather, with Casey South Melbourne and Geelong securing vital victories in what is set to be another close season of cricket.
The Swans defended 174 against Frankston Peninsula and Geelong thrashed Greenvale by 145 runs.
Dandenong heads to AH Butler Oval next week to face Frankston Peninsula in the first day of a two-day fixture.
October and cricket season don’t mix at all
By Marcus Uhe
In what is becoming an annual tradition across Melbourne, the opening round of cricket season has been thwarted by Mother Nature once again.
For the fourth consecutive season, the pentup energy, testosterone and eagerness of Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf cricketers has been suppressed for the first weekend of October with the league citing ‘the State of many grounds in the City of Greater Dandenong and City of Casey.
The DDCA made the decision on Wednesday, 2 October that no Turf cricket will be played over the weekend and formally communicated with clubs on Thursday morning, 3 October.
Putting the stumps in and getting a full day’s play, however, would have been difficult, given nagging October rainfall that has become a traditional enemy of the opening rounds.
After a sunny Saturday morning, significant rain fell in the afternoon, with more than nine millilitres recorded at the Moorabbin Airport weather observation centre between 2 and 5pm.
Dandenong’s opening round of the Premier Cricket Victoria season at Shepley Oval was abandoned at the innings break, having been unable to restart after the interval.
Statistics from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) indicate October is the least ideal time to begin the competition in the region, based on historical rainfall data.
“Down the South East of Melbourne, taking the closest observation point for rainfall around the Pakenham area, Beaconsfield Upper, the median rainfall for October is actually pretty high97.3 millilitres,” Chris Kent from the BOM said on Friday 4 October.
“Looking throughout the whole year at this particular location, October is the wettest on average throughout the year.
“88 ml is the average through October and 81 ml in November.
“September is only 79 ml and through Winter, 83 ml in June.
“When you look at it that way, getting washed out in October is probably something that probably happens a fair bit, given it’s the wettest month
A sorry sight; covers were down across the cricket grounds on Saturday.
of the year.
“Looking at last year in October, there was 110 ml recorded.”
Kent says the drastic juxtaposition between hot and cold temperatures is not isolated to Melbourne, and is reflective of the weather patterns across the country.
“(In) October you are starting to see some warmer temperatures developing especially across warmer parts of the country and the volatility of Spring comes from the sharp temperature change between cold and warm.
“When you get those two areas mixing and you get a cold front moving through and dragging down a lot of that heat from inland, and mixing with the cooler air across southern Australia, that’s where the volatility comes from in terms of the weather.
“Come Summer time, that temperature gradient between north and south isn’t that strong, so it tends to be a bit more stable.
“October, you’re starting to see those warmer temperatures in the north.
“Currently across northern Australia it is quite warm.
“For October, we are expecting tempera-
years, the younger Siwes is excited for the opportunity to lead his mates into battle.
“I’ve always aspired to be a coach and captain of a club and start that path as my old man did all through his life,” he said.
“He coached footy and cricket at quite a young age and I grew up around all the footy and cricket clubs with essentially him being the main guy.
“Seeing the way he goes about it and how much he enjoyed it, and the happiness and success he got, is definitely something that I looked at doing in the future for sure.
“I just enjoy that side of things, bringing the boys up and pushing them along and creating new challenges for everyone, as well as trying to set the standard and being supportive, and keeping a good balance between the fun side and when it’s time to switch on.”
With round one abandoned due to weather, his first match at the helm will come at home against his former side, on a special day for the club when they will unfurl the premiership flag from last season.
Martin move to Springvale
By Marcus Uhe
Springvale Districts Football Club has secured the services of former Noble Park champion Kyle Martin for the 2025 football season in a significant coup for the club.
Martin crosses from the Bulls where he has been regarded as one of the best local footballers in Melbourne for the last decade, and captained the club to a premiership in 2022.
Martin played just six games in 2024 in his recovery from knee surgery the previous year that ruled him out of the premiership defence before it could commence
tures across Melbourne and the south east… the chance of exceeding the average temperature to be quite high.
“We are expecting some warmer than average temperatures through that part, hence the volatility could be a little more on the higher side and we’ll get those drastic shifts in weather.”
With further rain expected in the coming weeks, it could force a major reshuffle of the DDCA’s fixtures for later in the season.
Unlike previous years, the competition begins in the three Turf grades with six One Day matches before donning the whites for the first in mid-November in round seven.
“For the forecast over the next couple of weeks, it’s still looking like you could see a little bit of rainfall on the cards,” Kent said.
“Starting next week and going by the climate outlook, you could still see around 2-13 millilitres through the area.”
The prospects of the matches being replayed at a later date remains to be seen.
Last summer, round one was replayed on Sunday, 10 December, after the original fixtures date, Saturday 7 October, was abandoned due to weather conditions.
His signature follows that of close friend and former Bulls teammate, Jackson Sketcher, who committed to returning to the club where he made his senior football debut as a teenager, and where his father, Neville, is considered a club great.
The additions will make Springvale Districts a significant threat in Division One of the Southern Football Netball League next season, joining a squad that finished fourth in 2024 and was eliminated by Cranbourne in the first week of the finals.
Joshua Slater (left) and teammate Dhanusha Gamage added 67 for the fourth wicket on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 383174)
Kyle Martin will wear Springvale Distircts colours next season. (Rob Carew: 242703)
(Marcus Uhe: 318285)
Riley Siwes (bowling) will lead Dandenong West in the opening few weeks of the new cricket season. (Rob Carew: 386709)
