Dandenong Star Journal - 12th November 2024

Giants on the show stage

Will Lewin, from Yannathan, with his horse Willice Park Clifford were among the impressive pairings at a glorious Dandenong Show arena on 9-10 November. The duo went on to win the Best Presented Clydesdale award. For more Dandy Show pictures, turn to page 13. (Rob Carew: 441084)

Cr hiatus ends

Two weeks after council election voting, Greater Dandenong and Casey’s new teams of councillors have started to take shape.

Following a long hiatus without councillors, Casey voters faced a further wait for final election results which were expected last Friday 9 November.

Results for Akoonah and River Gum wards were held up until 11 November for recounts.

The other 10 wards were declared on time,

revealing an ALP member Stefan Koomen, a past Liberal MP Gary Rowe and Greens councillor Dave Perry.

Rowe and Lynette Pereira (ex-Greens, 2008-’12) were the only returned councillors.

Former councillors Rex Flannery, Damien Rosario and Wayne Smith were rejected.

In what looks like an exciting blank canvas, the rest are self-described independents with an array of agendas.

Some of their most common issues included integrity – unsurprising after councillors were sacked amid a corruption investigation in 2020.

Community safety, low rates, council spending were other popular priorities.

Greater Dandenong’s newly-elected councillor team has a familiar ring – a strong ALP majority of 8 (same as 2020), two Greens (up one from 2020) and an independent (down by one).

In an upset, Cleeland Ward’s Angela Long – a

three-time mayor – was beaten by Greens councillor Rhonda Garad.

Three new councillors were elected – Alice PhuongLe(SpringvaleCentral),IsabellaDo(Keysborough South) and Melinda Yim (Keysborough).

More on the elections on pages 2-5

Garad in, Long out in Cleeland

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

In a stunning coup, Greens candidate Rhonda Garad has usurped 25-year ALP councillor Angela Long in the City of Greater Dandenong elections.

Garad, who previously served as a Keysborough South Ward councillor, had switched to Long’s Cleeland Ward just weeks ahead of the election.

In a provisional count on 7 November, Garad unexpectedly won the preference battle despite being up against three ALP opponents. She drew away to win by 400-plus votes.

Celebrating with a morning tea with campaign volunteers, Garad said she was “delighted”, “thrilled” and “relieved” to be returned. However Long regarded the victory as a betrayal by her one-time friend.

Garard gave herself a 20-30 per cent chance of winning as a “relatively unknown” against a “councillor of 25 years that people were very well aware of”.

Now she was looking forward to teaming up with a likely second Greens councillor Isabella Do as well as working with independent Bob Milkovic.

“I think there’s a lot of cross-over points with Bob.

“Obviously there are points we disagree on, but we agree on issues of governance and integrity and financial management … Bob is also quite pro-trees.”

Top of her second-term agenda is to progress the Dandenong Community Hub project, revitalize Dandenong Market and to create a pedestrian-friendly precinct in between the two sites.

She also wanted to act on “run-down, neglected” infrastructure including brightening “incredibly dark” street lighting and auditing footpaths.

Greater Dandenong Council should also work with partners on delivering affordable housing, Garad said. She said the council had available land, including “air space” above car parks.

“The idea that it’s just about increasing the number of houses – we don’t need more milliondollar houses, we need affordable and manageable housing.”

During door-knocking, Garad met many residents who were concerned about crime.

Financially struggling gamilies were facing the prospect of living in cars if they copped another rent rise., she said

“What came across was the powerlessness. What came across was that we’re on our own here.”

Another project will be a possible podcast for

councillors to better communicate with residents.

Garrad also wants to “increase the voice of the community in every policy and process”.

“Council can be very ivory-towered and the community can easily be excluded.”

“There’s a lot to do but it’s very doable.”

A “disappointed” Long said this was her last election after three stints as mayor and 25 years on council.

“What disappointed me the most is that Rhonda Garad told everyone that she was not running again (before nominating for Cleeland Ward).

“She was my friend and she stabbed me in the back.”

Long said she’d supported Garad in the previous term of council, including delivering medicine to Garad’s doorstep and handknitting a dress for Garad’s newborn grand-daughter.

The pair also used to get together for afternoon teas with former councillor Eden Foster, who is now the Mulgrave MP.

ALP member Zahra Haydar Big’s decision to run on an open ticket, rather than direct preferences to party colleague Long, was decisive, according to Long.

Long said she was “surprised” by Haydar Big’s move, which she added was also against ALP rules.

Haydar Big may also face consequences from the ALP. “She was warned so it’s her own fault,” Long said.

“If you don’t want to follow the rules, don’t join a political party.”

Reflecting on her own legacy, Long said she was disappointed in assertions that she’d neglected the ward.

“I’ve always been very passionate about the

community.

“I’ve been involved in a few clubs in the area, I’ve lived in this same house for 53 years and my kids went to local schools.

“I am disappointed but life goes on.”

Haydar Big said she ran an “open ticket” becuase Long had turned down her request to exchange second preferences.

“So I didn’t preference anyone. I left it for the local residents to put numbers of their choice - as while I was doorknocking, many residents believed in a change for Cleeland Ward.”

Garad said she hadn’t recently spoken to Long but still regarded her as a friend.

“What I’d say to her is thank her for 25 years in dedication for what she’s put into the community.

“This wasn’t about running against Angela but running for Cleeland.”

Springvale Central’s new councillor decided

By Sahar Foladi

A surprised Greater Dandenong council election candidate Alice Phuong Le was caught unawares when she provisionally won the Springvale Central ward after preferences on 7 November.

“So excited, so surprised to be honest,” the ALP member told Star Journal,

“When I did it (signed up), the entire time during the campaign I worked so hard.

“Every single day I worked for hours and asked residents to support me, and I’ll work for the community. Oh my goodness!”

Her excitement on full display, the Area Specialist real-estate agent has called Springvale home for almost a decade.

With 1669 primary votes, she had been narrowly leading by just 34 votes over ALP candidate Meng Bunlay (1635) and 41 over Minh Le (1628).

However, after preferences, she drew away from Minh Le to win by 1077 votes, on the back of a 71 per cent preference flow from party colleague Bunlay.

Her contender Meng Bunlay says her gender may have contributed to her winning as she was the only female amongst the six candidates for the ward.

“She campaigned well. It could be that she’s a female while most of us are male - that could be advantageous for her.

“Other candidates had a stronger base from

the start, they campaigned ahead of me.

“At the end of the day, the most votes win. This is democracy, I grew up in this country and I respect that.”

Meanwhile Melinda Yim - who stood as an independent but is applying for Labor membership - comfortably defeated long-term excouncillor Peter Brown by 1330 votes after preferences in Keysborough Ward.

Brown, a former Labor member who stood as a genuine independent, first served on the

council from 2003-16 and 2019-21 and was a one-time mayor.

Yim says Brown was a concern for her during the election campaign.

“He was my biggest competitor, I was worried he’d take the seat.

“I wouldn’t have been disappointed if he did win because I think I agree with a majority of his policies.

“I would’ve respected the residents’ decision.”

The young 28-year-old is waiting on her ALP membership to be approved, saying she’s looking forward to work with her “family’s favourite” the five-time mayor Jim Memeti from Dandenong Ward, who presented her family’s citizenship award as a mayor of Greater Dandenong Council.

“My family would definitely be excited for me to work with him.

“My major policy is assisting with residents with disabilities and elderly residents. They could have more attention given to them.”

The quality-assurance assistant in the pharmaceutical industry says she’d like to focus on the upkeep of parks, reserves and roads.

She says she chose to pursue science at the University of Melbourne to “better understand” her sister’s condition, who is intellectually disabled, and also of others in the disability community.

In an incredible outcome in Cleeland Ward, Greens party member Rhonda Garad defeated the ALP’s Angela Long, a three-time mayor who had been on the council for the past 25 years.

The Cleeland ward also went into preference vote with Garad drawing out 424 votes ahead after preferences, beating three ALP candidates.

She will be teaming up with the victorious Greens party member Isabella Do in Keysborough South Ward, who won 47.5 per cent on primaries. After preferences, she defeated secondplaced ALP member Alexandra Bryant by more than a whooping 2529 votes.

Cleeland Ward candidates Pradeep Hewavitharana, Zahra Haydar Big, Rhonda Garad and Angela Long at the election ballot draw on 18 September. (Gary Sissons: 432584)

Spectulation on next mayor

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Councillors Jim Memeti and Sophie Tan are among the early tips as Greater Dandenong’s next mayor.

Other long term ALP councillors Loi Truong and Sean O’Reilly ruled themselves out of the running for the mayoral election on 18 November.

Truong said he’d back ALP member Sophie Tan – a five-year councillor who has previously served as deputy mayor.

“I believe many councillors will support her.”

Five-time mayor Jim Memeti will also nominate for the role, arguing that his experience was needed to lead a young council.

“This is the youngest council that I have seen. We’ve got three councillors in their 20’s for the first time. It’s important to have someone with a bit of experience who can bring stability.

“I’ve proven that I can unite the council, bring everyone together to work for the community.”

Serving Springvale South since 2008, Truong (34 per cent primary vote) comfortably eclipsed second-placed Thayhorn Yim (19 per cent) by more than 1000 votes after preferences.

It was in stark contrast to his narrow 90-vote win in 2020.

“This time was better because the preferences were good for me.”

Many of the candidates put Truong No.2 on their how-to-vote cards, including CambodianAustralian candidates Malab Hem and Lin Sok.

The second-placed Yim, who is of Cambodian background, said it was a “misleading tactic” that “split Cambodian votes”.

“While the outcome was not what my team and I had hoped for, I am deeply proud of the campaign we ran and the genuine efforts made to connect with and represent the multicultural community.”

Meanwhile, Sean O’Reilly with 45 per cent primary vote saw his 643-vote lead evaporate to just 200 after preferences.

Election at a glance

• ALP (8), Greens (2), Independent (1)

• Women (6), men (5)

• First-time councillors (3), 2nd-term (4), 3rdterm (1), 4-plus-terms (3)

• Real estate agents (2), businesspersons (2), university academic, brand manager, pharmaceutical quality-assurer, teacher, banker, software engineer, law student

Rhonda Garad (Greens)

CLEELAND

• (Cr from 2020- , works at Monash University)

• Cost of living, street lighting/footpaths, rubbish dumping

Bob Milkovic (Independent)

DANDENONG NORTH

• (Cr from 2020- , real estate agent)

• Low rate rises, roads/parks, businesses, volunteer groups

Jim Memeti (ALP)

DANDENONG

• (Cr from 2005- , 5-time mayor, businessperson)

• Dandenong Community Hub, homelessness, cost of living

Isabella Do (Greens)

KEYSBOROUGH SOUTH

• (New Cr, DuluxGroup assistant brand manager)

• Parking and traffic congestion, parks and open spaces, value for rates

Melinda Yim (ALP membership pending)

KEYSBOROUGH

• (New Cr, pharmaceutical quality-assurance)

• Community safety, disability/elderly services, streets/footpaths/parks/reserves

Lana Formoso (ALP)

NOBLE PARK NORTH

• (Cr from 2020- , mayor 2023-‘24, high school teacher)

• Sports facilities, road safety, parks/playgrounds, tree coverage

Sophie Tan (ALP)

NOBLE PARK

• (Cr from 2019- , deputy mayor 2020-’21, banker)

• Community safety, Noble Park library, Heatherton Road roundabout, aged care services

Alice Phuong Le (ALP)

SPRINGVALE CENTRAL

• (New Cr, real estate agent)

• Infrastructure, affordable housing, community safety

Sean O’Reilly (ALP)

SPRINGVALE NORTH

• (Cr from 2012- , mayor 2014-‘15, senior software engineer)

• Cost of living, community safety, roads/ footpaths/parks/libraries/rubbish dumping

Loi Truong (ALP)

SPRINGVALE SOUTH

• (Cr from 2008- , milk-bar owner)

• Cost of living, roads/lighting/public spaces, environmental sustainability, cultural events

Phillip Danh (ALP)

YARRAMAN

• (Cr from 2024- , law student)

• Aged care services, community safety, litter/ roads/lighting/graffiti

Independent Angela Holl (35 per cent primaries) scored a 70 per cent preference flow from candidate Huong Dinh.

This was despite Dinh advising voters to direct No.2 preferences to O’Reilly over Holl.

O’Reilly was heavily favoured to win after pharmacist, philanthropist and ex-deputy mayor Richard Lim planned to run against him but was ruled ineligible to stand.

“How people vote is extremely hard to predict,” O’Reilly wryly noted – who famously released AI-inspired tunes and imagery as part of his campaign.

“Angela ran a really strong campaign. I think she did about four flier-deliveries and put up a lot of signs in Springvale.”

On the job ahead, O’Reilly said the “critical” issue of parking congestion in Springvale CBD and the shopping strips north of the railway station was “not easy to solve”.

Despite long-awaited upgrades to No.8 Balmoral Avenue multi-deck car park, drivers were

still circling the area for free parking on the streets.

A previous street parking-meter trial in Springvale CBD was abandoned after fierce opposition from traders.

“Before the council makes such a big move again, we have to make sure the majority of traders agree to it.”

A mooted multi-storey car park in Warwick Avenue was subject to funding. One idea was a value-capture mixed-use development including parking and commercial space.

With rising costs and capped rates, the council was under financial strain and faced difficult decisions on the horizon, O’Reilly said.

“It’s not as easy to be a councillor as 10 years ago when we always seemed to have the money to what we want. It’s getting tougher and tougher.

“Residents still have an expectation but the council has to be honest, upfront and clear on what the situation is.”

Star Journal attempted to contact Sophie Tan for comment.

Sean O’Reilly has been returned for a fourth term as councillor.

Jim Memeti is seeking a sixth stint as mayor. (Supplied)

Sophie Tan during the 2020 election campaign. She was elected unopposed in 2024.

Loi Truong has been returned with a comfortable margin.

Isabella Do, Greens

Councillors back for Casey

By Ethan Benedicto and Violet Li

New councillors have officially been declared for the City of Casey at Bunjil Place on Friday 8 November, however both Akoonah and River Gum were delayed until Monday.

Before announcements began shortly after 2pm, Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) representatives announced that both Akoonah and River Gum were subject to a recount due to the “tightness” of the results. On Monday, Scott Dowling were confirmed as the councillorforAkoonahWard,andLynettePereirafor River Gum Ward.

Dowling was not present during Friday’s event. However Ms Pereira said at the time she was baffled whenshefoundouttherecountingatthedeclaration event.

“I won almost 2,000 votes. And no one called me [on the recounting],” she said.

“I took time off work to come to this [declaration event], so it’s quite embarrassing to sit here and be told it’s going to have another recount. “But I don’t even know why.”

According to the current result, Ms Pereira won both the primary votes and preferential votes. She had56.6percentofthevotesafterfiveroundsofpreference distributions.

Asfortheothercandidates,eachoftheremaining councillors took to the stage to thank everyone who had voted for them, but also the efforts of the VEC in what was a demanding last few days of seemingly endless numbers.

This article will focus on the northern wards, whichconsistofAkoonah,Grevillea,Kalora,Waratah and Dillwynia, with Cranbourne News holding more details on the southern ends of Casey.

Kim Ross, who addressed the crowd during Casuarina Ward’s councillor announcement said that she was thankful, but also extended that thanks to fellow candidate Jane Foreman who congratulated her for the win.

”I’m more passionate now than I was at the start,

and it felt pretty fantastic being out on the stage but I also realised that this is just the first part, the first stage,” Ross said.

“It’s such an important stage to get to, it was just lovely to be able to have the first official speech done with.”

Like many, Ross had been “madly googling” on who the candidates were going to be prior to the announcement, and for her, she is “starting fresh” with the other councillors, “trusting that everyone has stood up for the right reasons”.

“Trusting that we will find common ground with each other to work for the citizens of Casey.

“We will have our differences and disagreements, but if we can all hold each other accountable to why we’re here and respect each other’s opinions, it should be a fairly positive thing for democracy in Casey.”

When Kalora’s elected councillor was called onto stage,Ambrosaddressedandthankedthelocalcom-

munity for choosing her as their representative, and that “it’s fantastic that we have representation, it’s a long time coming”.

“It’s unfortunate that some people didn’t make it through but their presence will be seen in the community and that is what we need, we need to work together to bring back our council.

”I was hopeful at the beginning of this journey andit’sgreattoseeintheendthatI’mhere,Icouldn’t have done it without my family, my friends, my community and the residents, they brought me where I am today.”

While further steps still need to be taken such as councillor induction, Ambros said that there are some “good, key services that need to be tended to”, as well as further emphasis to address the safety concerns in Endeavour Hills in relevance to recent events.

ernment will have political inclinations within it.

“The major way to deal with these issues is to acknowledge them and to be really upfront with them,” she said.

“Provided we can keep that transparency and accountabilityhappeningandclear,thatisthebestway; this is coming from a State Government and we understand that you’re a Labor person and this is your Labor perspective on the table.

“Let’s acknowledge that, put that aside, and go, what do the residents need? We’re here to represent them who range from every political spectrum, we need to focus on what the people need.”

Although he was away on vacation with family, Koomen had sent through a letter which was read out during Wartah’s announcement.

In the letter he said that he was “honoured to be elected” as the new councillor for Waratah, and he too expressed his gratitude for the “overwhelming support” from the residents and community.

“It’s truly humbling to be the first person in the area of Waratah in over 30 years to be elected to represent our community.

“Ilookforwardtohittingthegroundrunningnext week and working with all the successful candidates to make Casey an even better place for residents,” he said.

Way up in the north, Grevillea’s Dave Perry was forthright with his reasoning to run for council, addressingthecrowdandexpressingnotjusthisbutthe ward’s discontent with the lack of proper local representation in council.

“We could go into a lot of detail about that, but I’ll do my best to represent the north part of Casey,” he said.

Thankingthosewhohadvotedforhim,Perrysaid that he had been shaky ever since the results had comethrough,andthathewas“surprised”athiswin.

As an independent, Ambros stressed the importanceofcorelocalservices“thatrunourcommunity”, andthatitneedstherepresentationof“someonethat runs our community”.

“That understands what matters, not just for the ward but collectively for the whole council.

“Even while yes, people feel that [party politics] presence, it’s how the community and the council will get things done that really matter to the people,” she said.

Ross was of the same mind, referring to herself as a true independent, she aims to keep “party politics” out of local government.

Acknowledging the impact and presence of party politics remains important however, saying that it is impossible to avoid it considering that any legislation imparted onto local councils by the current elected State and or Federal gov-

“Last week I didn’t think it would happen, I kind of moved on, whatever happened would have happened.

”WhatI’mlookingtodoisfindoutwhatwecando foragedcarewhichisveryimportanttome,I’dliketo have it reinstated in council if we can, and the other thing is I’d like to build a pump track somewhere in the north for the kids.

“Of course, the next thing is protecting the Green Wedge up in Narre Warren North and Harkaway,” he said.

Over in the east, Anthony Walter was officially announced as Dillwynia Ward’s councillor; however he was not present during the ceremony and comments will be gathered in the following days.

Declared councillors

Scott Dowling (Independent) AKOONAH (NewCr,realestateagent)

• Public safety, thriving neighbourhoods and safe roads.

Kim Ross (Independent) CASUARINA (NewCr,psychologist)

• mental health support, youth, footpaths/linked bike paths, local events, parks/green spaces, climatechange.

Gary Rowe (Independent, past Liberal MP)

CORREA (Cr for Cranbourne Shire 1989-’92, Casey 2012’16,2017-’20,bankmanager)

• Community safety, employment, Cranbourne raillineextension.

Michelle Crowther (Independent) CRANBOURNE GARDENS (NewCr,businessowner)

• council spending, community safety, child and maternalhealthservices

Anthony Walter (Independent) DILLWYNIA (NewCr,BunningsClydeNorth)

• roads,crime,integrity

Dave Perry (Greens)

GREVILLEA (NewCr,salesmanager)

• inappropriate development, aged care services,

integrity

Melinda Ambros (Independent) KALORA (NewCr,HRprofessional)

• keeping rates low, infrastructure, community services

Shane Taylor (Independent) KOWAN

(NewCr,VictorianBuildingAuthorityinspector)

• community engagement, value for money, infrastructure

Carolyn Eaves (Independent)

QUARTERS (NewCr,accountant)

• integrity,prudentspending

Lynette Pereira (Independent) RIVER GUM (Ex-GreensCr2008-’12,customerservice)

• Good governance. Hallam Rd Tip/proposed Waste Transfer Station, community safety and Harmony.

Jennifer Dizon (Independent)

TOORADIN (NewCr,lawyer)

• infrastructure,publicsafety,parks,publichealth

Stefan Koomen (ALP)

WARATAH (NewCr,electorateofficer)

• essential services, public spaces, infrastructure, communitysafety

Casey Council’s new councillors. From left to right, top to bottom: Shane Taylor for Kowan Ward, Gary Rowe for Correa Ward, Jennifer Dizon for Tooradin Ward, Dave Perry for Grevillea Ward, Michelle Crowther for Cranbourne Gardens Ward, Kim Ross for Casuarina Ward, Melinda Ambros for Kalora Ward and Carolyn Eaves for Quarters Ward. (Stewart Chambers: 442141)

Ambros, Koomen

By Ethan Benedicto

Councillors for the City of Casey have been officially declared at Bunjil Place on Friday 8 November, with Melinda Ambros and Stefan Koomen taking the reins in Kalora and Waratah wards respectively, .

As Kalora’s elected councillor was called onto stage, Ambros took the time to address and thank the local community for choosing her as their representative, and that “it’s fantastic that we have representation, it’s a long time coming”.

“It’s unfortunate that some people didn’t make it through but their presence will be seen in the community and that is what we need, we need to work together to bring back our council.

”I was hopeful at the beginning of this journey and it’s great to see in the end that I’m here, I couldn’t have done it without my family, my friends, my community and the residents, they brought me where I am today.”

While further steps still need to be taken such as councillor induction, Ambros said that there are some “good, key services that need to be tended to”, as well as further emphasis to address the safety concerns in Endeavour Hills in relevance to recent events.

As an independent, Ambros stressed the importance of core local services “that run our community”, and that it needs the representation of “someone that runs (for) our community”.

“That understands what matters, not just for the ward but collectively for the whole council.

“Even while, yes, people feel that [party politics] presence, it’s how the community and the council will get things done that really matter to the people,” she said.

Although he was away on vacation with family, Koomen had sent through a letter which was read out during Waratah Ward’s announcement.

In the letter he said that he was “honoured to be elected” as the new councillor for Waratah, and he too expressed his gratitude for the “over-

Ambros thanked the local community for choosing her as their local representative at Bunjil Place on Friday 8 November. (Stewart Chambers: 442141)

whelming support” from the residents and community.

“It’s truly humbling to be the first person in the area of Waratah in over 30 years to be elected to represent our community.

“I look forward to hitting the ground running next week and working with all the successful candidates to make Casey an even better place for residents,” he said.

In the following weeks, Casey’s mayor is to be

decided amongst the candidates, with Ambros saying that a collective group analysis is crucial when it comes to deciding on who should be undertaking such a critical role.

When asked if she would be aiming for mayor, she said “we’ll see what happens”, and that it remains up to the group and her mentioned study of who is most fit for the role.

“With that responsibility, the person that will lead and be the mayor, we want them to be that proper representation so that residents will feel

comfortable coming to them and the other councillors.

“But also making sure that the matters and issues get resolved and get done; and it’s also about we get our feet taking the right steps and going in the right direction, bring back our council to the residents.

”If it is going to be me, it will be an honour and a privilege, but at the end of the day there are 12 of us and whoever it is I’m going to support,” she said.

Stefan Koomen stated in a letter that he was honoured to be elected, also expressing his thanks to the local community. (Supplied)

Junkyard is ‘unbearable’

Residents in a Dandenong North street say a hoarder and his sprawling ’junkyard’ have made their lives unbearable, with authorities apparently unable to quell the problem.

They describe up to five trailers on the nature strip packed to the top, a long line of trucks, a ute with a trailer full of “rubbish” parked out in front of three properties and piles of junk laid out on the nature strip.

The occupant has hoarded for more than a decade, according to neighbours who do not wish to be identified.

They say they have complained multiple times to the City of Greater Dandenong Council and have had raised safety concerns with Victoria Police.

“The ute used to be his private vehicle, all of

a sudden it was full of rubbish,” says neighbour

*Shane, which is not his real name.

“He keeps getting different cars and trucks fills them up and parks them. All of them are full of rubbish.

“Everyone’s had enough.“

Shane says he’s complained three times to the council.

The neighbourhood is comprised of middleaged to elderly residents many of whom have lived in the area for 20 and 30 years plus.

Council chief executive Jacqui Weatherill says the council is aware of the property and “responded to complaints from neighbours“.

All options are being explored to solve the issue “in the best interest of all residents“,

Weatherill said.

“Our Environmental Health team is taking a considered approach to this situation.

“They are supporting and working with the resident, who is cooperating with officers to address concerns.“

To clarify, she confirms the council hasn’t deployed any security staff in the area. It was likely that neighbours saw a parking compliance officers “checking truck parking there in the normal course of their work.“

She also confirms that council has been at the property for hard rubbish collection “including recently“.

*Shane and some other neighbours has also reached out to Bruce MP Julian Hill and Dande-

nong MP Gabrielle William’s offices in desperate pleas for help.

Ms Williams says “hoarding materials” on private property is a matter for Council.

“Council and my office referred this matter accordingly, being sure to explain the ongoing amenity impacts it has had for local residents.

“Other safety related matters raised by residents were referred to Victoria Police, via the Minister for Police, who are the appropriate contact for concerns about community safety and law enforcement.

“We have informed the residents who contacted me about the actions we have taken to refer their concerns to the appropriate authorities and will continue to follow up as required.“

Push for free public transport and more services

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

State upper house MP Rachel Payne has called for an end to “public transport deserts” with free and frequent bus services in the South East.

Payne, from the Legalise Cannabis Victoria party, will this week introduce a motion to Parliament to review gaps in bus networks and to start a 12-month trial of free buses.

The revamp – including buses every 15 minutes - could revive an ailing bus network, which has recorded a 42 per cent drop in patronage since 2018, she said.

“I’m calling for buses to be free and frequent with more direct services, especially in the South East and the outer lying suburbs.

“By making buses free – at least for a year – the government is helping people in a cost-of-living crisis and ensuring this service is actually used.

“If Queensland can introduce 50-cent public transport fares, then we can make buses free for a year. It’s do-able.”

Infrastructure Victoria found that every $1 reduction in bus fares boosts patronage by almost 20 per cent, Payne said. And that one in four people

wanted to get rid of their cars but had no viable alternative.

“Eight out of 10 Victorians live just a short walk to a bus stop, but one in three has never got on a local bus.

“One full bus can take 50 cars off the road. Buses are the key to getting people to leave their cars at home in the South East.”

She welcomed iniatives such as emission-free bus networks from 2025 as well as the 800 bus service between Dandenong and Frankston expanding to seven days, but there remained “public transport deserts”.

More buses to service hubs, shopping centres, industrial areas, universities, sport and entertainment precincts were needed.

“Too many other bus services snake around suburbia, no one wants to get on a bus that takes an hour to get somewhere you could drive to in 10 minutes.

“Bus passengers are less likely to have a drivers’ license and include lots of student and elderly users. Bad buses entrench disadvantage,” she said.

“Better buses mean people save on petrol, cut

emissions and have improved community connection.

“Better buses deliver mums to part-time jobs, seniors to community groups, and uni and school students to sports practice.”

FixDandyBuses convenor Peter Parker welcomed aspects of the plan. Investment was best focused on more frequent services, rather than fare cuts alone, he said.

A State Government spokesperson said more than $550 million had been invested in new and improved bus services since 2014, including in the South East.

“We’re improving Victoria’s public transport and recognise the important role that buses play which is why we’re adding thousands more services across the network.”

More than 200 bus routes had been improved or added since the launch of Victoria’s Bus Plan in July 2021.

Generous concessions were offered such as two-hour and daily capped fares, student concessions and free train travel if you touch off before 7.15am, the spokesperson said.

Better 800-route opening soon

Seven-day services on the Route 800 bus network will start within two weeks.

The Dandenong to Chadstone service’s revised timetable will include a tripling of Saturday trips and later into the night. It starts from Sunday 24 November.

The issue, led by FixDandyBuses convenor Peter Parker, gained traction at this year’s Mulgrave by-election.

He said the extended timetable – long operating hours and frequent service – was a key to making buses a useable, cost-saving alternative to driving.

It supported modern travel and working patterns, particularly on weekends, for trips to Dandenong Plaza, Chadstone Shopping Centre, IKEA, M-City and Monash University.

The Government announced funding for the move in the 2024-’25 State Budget.

Parker praised the Government for starting the upgrade in time for

Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne is calling for a 12-month trial of free buses in the South East.

There are up to eight vehicles on the property and down the street.

Junk laid out on the nature strip in front of the property in Dandenong North.

Lifestyle Riverfield’s Clubhouse Grand Opening

Discover the vibrant lifestyle that awaits you at Lifestyle Riverfield!

Participate

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Pathways to re-engage

In response to the increasing disengagement among Year 9-12 students in Victorian mainstream schools, ECG Secondary College (ECG) is excited to announce the introduction of Year 10 classes at its Dandenong campus beginning in 2025. This initiative aims to provide a supportive alternative learning environment for students who are seeking a different approach to education.

A growing number of young people are expressing dissatisfaction with traditional schooling methods, particularly the pressure of exams and academic workloads. ECG recognises the unique challenges faced by teenage students during these formative years and has redefined the educational experience by placing nurturing relationships at the heart of its teaching approach.

The new Year 10 program at the Dandenong campus provides a second chance for students located in Dandenong and surrounding areas to re-engage with their education in a way that suits their individual needs and aspirations. The curriculum focuses on hands-on learning, skills development, and real-world experiences, ensuring that students are prepared not only for further education but also for future employment opportunities.

Currently, ECG offers Years 11 and 12 (VPC and VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate programs) across all four of its campuses in Warragul, Leongatha, Pakenham and Dandenong. ECG is also extending invites for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for mid-year enrolment in Years 9 and 10 for the 2025 academic year at its Pakenham campus.

“We understand that not every student thrives in the conventional academic setting,” said Russel Praetz, Principal at ECG. “By launching these Year 10 classes at Dandenong, we aim to provide a nurturing space where students can rediscover their passion for learning with a hands-on ap-

proach. Students will receive tailored support to help develop their confidence, life skills, and career readiness, ensuring they are set up for success in their chosen pathways.”

At ECG, students and staff work together in a learning community where everyone is encouraged to THRIVE—both in their academic achievements and their overall wellbeing. The school’s values embrace each student’s unique journey, helping them set meaningful goals and achieve their full potential.

ECG’s curriculum is built on its T.H.R.I.V.E

Learning Model, which fosters a Therapeutic environment focused on the Holistic development of skills for success in life. The approach centres around building positive and nurturing Relationships while offering Individualised education plans and differentiated instruction tailored to each student’s needs. With a strong focus on Vocational pathways, ECG connects students to VET education and taster programs, promoting Engagement, Enrichment, and Excellence in every student’s journey.

The curriculum promotes resilience, confidence, health, wellbeing, and practical life skills,

all tailored to student interests. At the heart of ECG’s educational offerings are the four pillars of applied learning, supported by rich experiential learning opportunities in Years 11 and 12, and project-based learning aligned with the Victorian Curriculum standards for Years 9 and 10. With enrolments now open, CCG is encouraging students and families to explore this unique opportunity to step into a learning environment that understands and meets their needs. To learn more or to apply, please visit https://ecg.vic.edu. au/enrol-with-us/ or contact 03 5622 6000 or info@ecg.vic.gov.au

This Girl Can Week is here

VicHealth is encouraging women across the state to come together and get active as part of This Girl Can Week.

Running from 10–17 November, This Girl Can Week involves sporting groups and clubs, local councils, and gyms, as they host a range of fun, safe and welcoming activities for women of all abilities, ages and cultural backgrounds.

From cultural dance and basketball, to stand-up paddleboarding and active playgroups, there is a wide range of activities for women to take part in across the state.

This Girl Can head Rebecca Ahern said this year’s theme – Together We’re Unstoppable – is about demonstrating the incredible things that happen when women get active together.

“We know that for women to feel confi-

dent enough to get active, they need to feel supported, safe and welcome,” Ms Ahern said.

“This Girl Can Week 2024 is all about providing opportunities for women of all backgrounds to get active while finding joy, community, and connection,” she said.

Research has shown that a fear of judgement and not having safe and welcoming spaces to get active are some of the barriers preventing women from getting involved in physical activity.

“We must continue to challenge the norms of what being “physically active” looks like. It shouldn’t matter where you’re from, how old you are, or what size clothes you wear – everyone should feel safe and welcome to exercise and move in our community,” Ms Ahern said.

Details: thisgirlcan.com.au/events

ECG Secondary College Dandenong campus launches Year 10 classes: A new pathway to re-engage in learning.

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Critical help for students

Exam season is a pivotal time for Year 12 students, as their future opportunities often depend on their performance.

This stress can lead to significant anxiety and performance-related concerns, making this period of school particularly challenging, as the quest for the highest possible ATAR can create immense pressure on individuals.

However, with the changing nature of education, and how learning is delivered in this new digital age, experts argue that - while exams may be important - they aren’t the sole determining factor in shaping future career prospects of students, with alternate pathways into tertiary education as well as other options for those who may desire a different pathway.

To help students navigate these pressures, MCERA (Media Centre for Education Research Australia) has teamed up with leading researchers to offer valuable strategies for managing and overcoming exam-related stress.

Dr Rachael Jacobs is a researcher in assessment, with a specialisation in creativity and high stakes assessment at Western Sydney University. A former secondary teacher, her research interests include language acquisition through the arts and anti-racism education, as well as creativity in assessment.

She says “dedicated study time with rewards are helpful for exam preparation.“

“Students can ease stress during exam time by having a calm environment that is conducive to studying and productivity, and having people around them take an interest in the subject matter, so that discussions can surface in a meaningful way.

“Learning also takes place in a variety of ways so students can improve their understanding of content by doing complementary practical tasks. For example, for the drama exam, don’t discount their need to act or play.

“For music, they might need to sing or listen to music. For history or global politics, they may need to watch the news or current affairs shows. Encourage them to engage with high quality sources though.

“Some research finds that exams actually build resilience. Allowing students time to create organised notes, learn how to organise their time, and a range of responses to questions and problems can really help build resilience.

“Helping them work through obstacles is always helpful, and reminding them that they don’t need to be perfect, but they do need to work hard and have a go.

“Dedicated study time with rewards are good for exam preparation. If using a reward-based system, try to make sure rewards aren’t always food-based, and try to let the reward be a time that their brain shifts to doing something different. Rewards could be an outing, a movie, seeing

live music, some structured social media time, or even a driving lesson!

“Today, there are so many options for students and we are lucky to live in a time where it doesn’t all hang on a series of exams. Students should put in effort throughout the year for all their assessment tasks.

“They can also consider early entry options into university, as well as options that don’t rely on ATAR scores, such as TAFE or trades. There are many courses that use alternative methods of selection, such as auditions or portfolios.“

Professor John Fischetti works at the University of Newcastle. With over 40 years’ experience in transforming classroom learning, teaching and assessment, he is part of leading change in school/university structures and board policies around an equity-driven goal of enabling success for all citizens in a collaborative, global innovation age.

“The exams, a relic of the 20th century ’sorting’ approach to determining post-secondary access, rely on psychometrics that create an illusion that they are based on assessing aptitude. They are, rather, a series of outdated stages of measuring wealth, post code, and compliance.

“The COVID-19 restrictions around the world prevented administration of the exams in many places. Universities and trade schools waived the testing requirements and, in many places, have not gone back to pre-COVID rules. Instead they use high school grade point average, attendance, and portfolios of assessment tasks organised to present specific evidence of learning outcomes.

“For those year-12 students who are part of the traditional process of studying for and anguishing about the final year 12 exams, all options are still open for every graduate,“ he said.

“For those that did well, they were likely already admitted to the program of their choice months prior to scores being released. For those that did not do quite as well as they hoped, they can be admitted to a different degree.

“Following a year of success in that program, they are likely to be able to use their marks to transfer back into the program they originally preferred (unless they have changed their minds on their direction as is often the case).

“For those who did poorly or who did not even sit the exams, they can enrol in an enabling pathway. After six months or a year they can apply straight into the degree of their choice with the extra support, knowledge, and confidence they gained in the enabling pathway. Or they can enter the workforce, the armed services, or start their own business and return for learning when they need it later in life.

“The exams are obsolete. Our confidence in the new pathways has not caught up with the reality that we are running an assembly-line system in a GenAI world.“

New EPA notice at soilyard

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A new demolition waste pile has been detected at an allegedly illegally contaminated soil works site in Bangholme’s Green Wedge.

Environment Protection Authority and Greater Dandenong officers launched a joint inspection of paddocks at 576 Frankston-Dandenong Road late last month after neighbours reported a dump of suspicious soil.

The site’s operator was recently put on notice for allegedly breaching its EPA licence to accept clean-fill soil only.

EPA southern metropolitan regional manager Viranga Abeywickrema said officers found a “small amount of construction and demolition waste”.

It contained “fragments of bonded cement sheeting”, which was sampled and analysed for potential asbestos.

“EPA has issued a Non-Disturbance Notice for that waste, which prevents the material being disturbed until the lab results are received.”

In August, the EPA issued a Notice to Investigate for a towering stockpile of soil, where EPA identified Category-D “low-level contamination” with toxic asbestos and heavy metals.

The notice remains in effect, with the operator ordering the pile to be “cordoned off” and the affected soil removed to a licensed landfill.

As reported by Star Journal, the EPA has advised there’s no health risk for worried residents at Willow Lodge retirement village, who live about 400 metres north of the site.

The neighbours are calling for an immediate halt to the near-daily dumping of soil that’s continuing on the site.

Soil mounds towering up to several metres are being reported by observers.

This is well above the waist-high height limit – up to 1.063 metres – initially sought by the proponent at a VCAT hearing in 2022.

Residents also claim the earthworks have moved to a new paddock – which is outside the permit area.

Greater Dandenong Council chief executive Jacqui Weatherill said the property owner and contractors were continuing to follow directions from the council’s planning compliance department.

“Our regulation of the site remains in place through an earthworks planning permit.

“This planning permit has specific requirements for the levels and soil types being introduced to the site.”

When asked for the specific height limit, Ms Weatherill said: “Anyone who would like to view

the conditions of a planning permit can formally request a copy of the planning permit from Council for a fee.

“As this matter is under enforcement and compliance action from both Council and the EPA, we are not able to disclose any further details.”

Greater Dandenong Council is also acting against the operator for allegedly breaching its earthworks planning permit.

It recently refused an application for a wastewater and soil transfer station on the site.

In July, the Star Journal reported on a certified environmental assessor’s report that raised the alarm on several pieces of asbestos found in four different areas of the mound as well as high levels of the heavy-metal, lead.

It recommended that the “category B industrial waste” should be transported to a lawful disposal place.

It also recommended testing to check for lead leaching into the area’s groundwater as well as a thorough audit and removal of asbestos contamination.

Eastern Seaboard Industries (ESI) is said to be leasing the site and managing the soil mound.

Answers demanded for greyhound deaths

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Animal welfare activists have called for a radical redesign of greyhound racing after a sixth dog in nearly two years died at the Sandown Park track.

On 31 October, one-year-old Alabama Jammer fell and was euthanised after suffering a fractured right humerus, according to a Sandown stewards report.

In response, Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds called for racing to be transferred from curved circuits such as Sandown to straight tracks.

It stated that its data showed four greyhounds had died at Sandown this year, plus two others in 2023.

A total of 70 died on all Victorian tracks in 2023 and 2024 - the deadliest greyhound-racing toll in Australia, CPG claims.

A great majority (84 percent) were caused by incidents at track turns, where “greyhounds bunch up and the physical stresses of running are greater”, according to the CPG.

“The death of Alabama Jammer, not even two years old, is tragic and unacceptable,” CPG state spokesperson Rebekah Herron said.

“In his short life, Alabama Jammer was treated as a commodity, and in October raced five times, ultimately dying in his fifth (ever) race.

“The race video of the incident is distressing. He deserved better.

Sandown Park, where a one-year-old dog was recently euthanised after being injured during a race. (Gary Sissons: 298105)

“The Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds continues to call for greyhound racing to be phased out to ensure that these avoidable injuries and deaths do not continue to occur.”

Greyhound Racing Victoria stated the causes of racing fatalities were “multi-faceted and unique to each situation”.

“(They) cannot be solely attributable to the track design, shape or surface,” a spokesperson said.

in Victoria, greyhound racing deaths decreased by more than 47 per cent in the past five years, and racing injuries down 18 per cent.

“With over 110,000 starters in about 15,000 races in Victoria annually, fatalities and serious injuries in racing are rare,” the spokesperson said.

Shed fire at Springvale Reserve ‘not suspicious’

By Sahar Foladi

Firefighters were called to a building fire at Springvale Reserve on Tuesday 5 November.

According to an Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson, a caller reported a building on fire on Newcomen Road via a Triple Zero call at 8.48pm.

Fire fighters attended the scene within five minutes to find a fire within a small brick storage shed.

The scene was deemed under control at 8.57pm.

Victoria Police was on the scene.

The cause of the fire is undetermined and is not being treated as suspicious, FRV stated.

The reserve is home to the Springvale Football and Netball club (SFNC). Its president Greg Scott says the shed is known in the community to be a “meeting spot” for illegal activities.

He says the issue was raised with Greater Dandenong Council and Victoria Police.

“They should’ve been moved on months ago because they bring unwelcome guests to the area. They deal drugs out of there and so forth.

“People have been living there dealing drugs for months.”

He says the “locked shed” contained no club valuables or commodities.

“It’s got nothing to do with the club.

“It’s in the council plans to be removed anyway so it has fast-tracked that. It’s probably a good thing for the community.”

Greater Dandenong Council chief executive officer Jacqui Weatherill said the councilowned shed was a former ticket box that “user groups used it for match day events.”

She denies that the shed had become home to people who dealt with illicit drugs.

“The shed will be demolished as a result of the damage caused by the fire. Our first priority was to make the site safe for user groups and the wider public.

“We will work with contractors to remove the shed as a priority.”

The Springvale Reserve Master Plan will see a significant overhaul with new netball courts, playground, public toilets, upgrading sports oval lighting, upgrading change rooms and social pavilion, and introducing new walking paths.

The plan was adopted by the council in October 2023 after community consultation, according to the council’s website timeline. There have been no further updates.

Trucks tipping soil in front of a giant mound at Frankston-Dandenong Road Bangholme on 25 October. City of Greater Dandenong declined to reveal the permitted soil-height limits for the site. (Stewart Chambers: 439665)

Flakes of construction material photographed by an observer at 576 Frankston Dandenong Road prior to the EPA launching an inspection. (Supplied)

Beyza’s recovery on ‘paws’

By Sahar Foladi

A Cranbourne North couple are desperate to bring their pet cat back home fully healthy after he was diagnosed with a viral disease.

Tanya Kamil is distraught after what she thought would be a regular vet check-up with some medication. Instead she was told to take her cat Beyza to Dandenong’s Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH).

The one-year-old “sweet indoor cat” has been treated at the hospital for feline infectious peritonitis - an immune-system response to feline coronavirus.

He’s not off the hook yet as recovery may take months with ongoing medication.

Beyza returned home from the hospital with a weak immune system, isolated in a room completely disinfected to avoid him falling sick.

“He used to eat three times a day. When he fell sick, he stopped eating. He used to love his food,” Tanya says.

“He’s a simple boy.

“I feel bad for him because he doesn’t cause problems. He’s not strong or the fighter of the group.”

Tanya says she and Beyza bonded when she nursed him back to health during a previous illness.

“We weren’t friends at first but slowly he grew on me. I connected with him when he had his first cat flu.

“I had to take care of him and give him his medicines in the morning a few times a day, put in his eyedrops.

“We liked each other. We were hesitant at first, but we bonded. We used to play with each other.”

The feline coronavirus infects cats worldwide however it mutates within the host becoming virulent and the infection uncontrollable for the immune system.

The infection can affect all organs such as brain, liver, eyes and kidney.

It was once considered to be a death sentence with no successful treatment available until recently, according to a board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist at VRH.

“The treatment of feline infectious peritonitis (“FIP”), a coronavirus that is specific to cats, is a landmark development in veterinary medicine,” Dr Matt Munro said.

“FIP is a serious systemic infection that can occur in any cat but is more commonly seen in younger patients.

“Until recently, there was no successful treatment available for FIP and this disease was invariably fatal for all cats.

“With the explosion anti-viral drug discovery in human medicine, veterinarians have been

FOCUS ON… CHRISTMAS CHEER

Festive treats at market

On Sunday 1 December the Dandenong Market will transform into a festive wonderland as it hosts its first-ever Christmas Market.

Explore the exciting festive stall holders and discover the perfect gift for a loved one, enjoy festive treats and take a picture under the Christmas tree – all 7 metres of it. Among the offerings are:

• Christmas decor and cards

• Gingerbread houses

• Sweet festive treats – to eat and gift!

• Handmade jewellery and candles

• Gifts for your furry friend Walk along the Terrace and explore the small businesses and discover treasures throughout the entire Market.

Santa will be visiting. That’s right – the man of the hour is taking time out of his busy schedule to drop by the Christmas Market by for photos with customers young and old, and he’s bringing his elves with him.

Get your perfect festive season photo from

11am.

Kids can also make the perfect Christmas card or decorate their stockings.

All this exploring at the Christmas Market requires a lot of energy, so we’ll have a variety of food trucks out on the Terrace to keep you well fed throughout the day.

And of course, all the flavours of the world are right under our Market roof.

The sounds of harmonious carols will be the background of this family-friendly day out to kickstart the festive period.

As you consider your Christmas list this year, come visit the Christmas Market and discover the hidden treasures small businesses have to offer.

Mark your calenders and gather loved ones to experience a family day out at the Christmas Market.

Christmas Market at Dandenong Market is on Sunday 1 December, 10am-3pm. Free entry.

able to adopt treatment with medications such as remdesivir, GS-441524, and molnupiravir.”

According to him, recent studies show up to 80 per cent of cats can be successfully cured in what is considered a “major breakthrough for veterinary science.”

Some cats however can relapse but Dr Munro says options remain to continue to successfully treat the patients.

“Treatment is typically carried out over several months and generally consists of daily oral medication. Research continues to optimise treatment protocols and treatment success.”

Tanya has so far used almost $4000 of savings on Beyza’s hospital stays, medicines and tests.

She has organised a GoFundMe page to help

cover Beyza’s present and future medical needs, which amount to $10,000 or more, depending on his recovery.

She doesn’t have any insurance to cover the costs and is also on a hunt for a work-from-home job.

“I should at least spend $3000-4000 for the month because he has internal specialist appointments and his medicines. It’ll be a lot.

“If I had the money I wouldn’t hesitate, it wouldn’t matter to me.”

She fears Beyza may stop receiving the treatments due to financial strain and desperately welcomes any help on her page.

Beyza’s GoFundMe page can be accessed at gofund.me/701c0039

Photos with Santa and elves are part of Dandenong Market’s first Christmas market.

Little Beyza is being treated for FIP but needs financial help to recovery full health. (Supplied)Dr Matt Munro says what was once considered a fatal infection can now be cured.

Monitors set for Casey

Municipal monitors have been appointed to three Victorian councils including the City of Casey in order to guide newly elected councillors in their first year of elected representation.

Alongside Casey, Whittlesea City and Strathbogie Shire Council will see council monitors working in tandem with councillors for the next year.

The Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne announced Peter Stephenson and Cameron Boardman as the monitors for Casey.

Stephenson has previously served as an administrator at Strathbogie Shire Council and was appointed as a monitor for the Rural City of Wangaratta and Soth Gippsland Shire Council.

As for Cameron Boardman, he will be transitioning from his role on the panel of administrators for Casey; he is currently a director at the Oceania Cyber Security Centre.

Whittlesea City Council will see Jude Munro and Peita Duncan as its monitors, with Marg Allan appointed as monitor for Strathbogie Shire Council.

Starting on 6 November 2024 until 6 November 2025, these monitors will support good governance and help to prevent the recurrence of issues that led to each council’s dismissal.

LOOKING BACK

11 November 2024

100 years ago

13 November 1924

DANDENONG METHODIST SUNDAY SCHOOL

The Methodist people have just completed a fine building (meeting hall) which certainly is an acquisition to the town of Dandenong. The contract price was 1650 pounds, but with internal fittings and extras the total cost will be in the vicinity of 2,000 pounds. The dimensions are 60 feet long by 36 feet wide with a nicely fitted kitchen and ante room added. The contractors Messers Wanke and Brown have done all that was asked of them, and the workmanship is a credit to the firm.

50 years ago

November 1974

A school branches out

Maranatha Christian School in Doveton will admit form-one students for the first time next year. They will be housed in temporary accommodation. Extra classroom facilities, which the school had hoped would be completed by the end of the year, will not be ready until mid-way through 1975. About 25 form-one students are expected to be enrolled. At present the school has 185 students from preps to grade six. The school is run by parents who have formed themselves into an Association for Christian Education in Dandenong. The Association is not linked with any particular church, but an interdenominational group “vitally concerned with the cause of Christian Education”. “It is true that it will be quite difficult to begin Christian

INTERFAITH

Horne said that “Victorians rightly expect newly elected councillors to maintain the high standard of governance put in place by the Administrators at these councils”.

“These experienced monitors will guide incoming councillors in governance practises to help them best serve their community.”

In the new upcoming term, councils will have a uniform councillor code of conduct, creating consistent standards of behaviour and raising accountability.

Horne also added that there will be strengthened powers to deal with councillors who are found to have created a serious risk to health and safety or are preventing their respective council from performing its functions.

In addition, a program of mandatory training has been introduced for councillors and mayors, including annual professional development.

These mentioned reforms have been developed in response to reports and recommendations from IBAC, the chief municipal inspector and other interventions which highlighted the need for stronger processes and powers to resolve conduct issues, and better training councillors in order to perform effectively.

education. The costs involved are considerably higher than in primary education.” For the Dandenong Association it will mean having to break open new ground in many respects.

20 years ago

8 November 2004

Works ready to begin on saleyards housing site.

Excavators are set to literally scrape the surface of the former Dandenong saleyards site tomorrow as part of the minor preparation

A prayer for deep listening

By Anita Davine, vice-president of City of Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network

Deep listening leads to hopeful and compassion ate responses in word and action.

This paraphrasing of Litany for Listeners from a Guide for Spiritual Conversation (Mi chael Hansen S.J.) was evidenced in a recent Interfaith Schools Gathering at the Springvale Town Hall.

The theme for the event was ‘Sharing the Load.’

Participants listened respectfully to students reading information about each of the major faith traditions and then joined in presenting songs and drama to depict what ‘Sharing the Load’ means to them.

May we all adopt this prayer in our homes, work places and community to promote peace, harmony, understanding and hope in our world

today.

Creator God, Open our ears, our whole being that we may become a listening presence to each other and enjoy the gift of our dialogue and conversation.

Give us the generosity to listen with openness.

The wisdom to understand what is heard.

The strength to be changed by what is shared.

The listening that never judges and humility

works for a $250million residential development. The housing estate – known as Metro 3175 – is already running about nine months behind schedule. “Scraping the surface is a very apt description,” said Gordan Rich-Phillips MLC. “The council and the community know nothing has happened down there despite the big promises.” House blocks will range in size from 220 to about 400 square meters and will accommodate terrace and town house style dwellings. The whole site will be developed over

the next decade and 1400 houses are planned in total.

5 years ago

12 November 2019

Six are running for mayor

A ‘Melbourne Cup’ field of candidates are lobbying to be Greater Dandenong’s next mayor. Ahead of the mayoral election on November 14th, up to six councillors are lobbying for their colleague’s votes. The field includes recent mayors Jim Memeti and Youhorn Chea. The other possible candidates are Sean O’Reilly, Maria Sampey, Loi Truong and first year councillor Sophie Tan. Cr O’Reilly said mayoral candidates were lining up to lead during the “historic” opening of the $50m Springvale library and community precinct next year.

to learn from others.

Increase in us the peace to forgive and be for-

The grace to honour both loss and gift.

The acceptance that allows failure to be

The prudence that treasures silence after word.

Ground in us the freedom that allows mystery.

The joy to celebrate new things found.

The readiness for laughter when it rises.

The reverence to listen with humble love.

The awe to hear you speaking in us.

Thank you. Amen

Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong: administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662. Visit - interfaithnetwork.org.au/

Anita Davine.

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

Jim Memeti is berobed as mayor after the close 2019 vote. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 200886)

Jim Memeti emerged victorious in a narrow mayoral election win on 14 November 2019. Four ALP candidates contested the role, with Memeti defeating Maria Sampey 6-5 in the final round. (200886)

The City of Casey will be appointed two council monitors to oversee the first year of the new councillors in office. (Gary Sissons: 429633)

Dandy Show delight for all

On a blazing weekend of sunshine, the 152nd Dandenong Show remains a spectacle by day and night.

Photographer ROB CAREW catalogued the bright rides and sideshows, the magnificent animal jumps and parades as well as a rich array of foods, fireworks and crafts.

It wasn’t hard to find smiling faces at a program rich with entertainment.

Michelle keeps the crowd pleased with her laughing clowns in Sideshow Alley. (Rob Carew: 441084)

Tess Runting with her famous dog Tilly. (441084)

Sisters Autumn (5yo) and Summer (7yo) with Bunnings Dandenong staff Karlee (left) and Ann (right) at the childrens activities table. (441084)

Flinders Christian Community College with Corriedale sheep Chester, front left, and Brooke, front right, and many awards including Champion Ram and Champion Ewe. (441084)

Hannah (3yo) sits on her pony and enjoys the view. (441084)

Dakota (2yo) helps out with award presentations. (441084)

The Tractor Pull event. (441084)Kade (3yo) and Ivy (6yo) keep cool in the shade waiting for the Clydesdales event. (441084)

People casually fly through the evening sky. (441084)

Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo

At the Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo you can discover a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services and employment options designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities. From cuttingedge technology and adaptive equipment to healthcare services and educational resources, there's something for everyone.

We are very excited to have Ellie Cole as our Expo Ambassador this year. Ellie will be on stage at the Expo from 11am, Friday 22nd November 2024.

The Melbourne Disability Expo is the first event to integrate the Melbourne WorkAbility Expo.

WorkAbility Expos are funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, and designed to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment.

At the Melbourne Workability Expo, you’ll find a variety of activities to support your employment journey. Here’s what you can expect:

• WorkAbility Consultation Lounge: Meet potential employers who believe in inclusivity and are eager to discover your talents.

• Practical workshops: Participate in workshops to get you job-ready and provide advice on how to start your own business.

• Support services: Support services

to help you get into the workforce. From training organisations to dedicated service providers, we provide you the opportunity to find the help to support you on your employment journey.

• Networking opportunities: You’ll have the chance to connect with employers who are committed to inclusive hiring practices and support services who are there to help you along the way.

• Learn from your peers: You will get to meet people with disability who have started their own business or who are already in the workforce.

• Workplace accommodations: Learn how to access workplace accommodations to ensure a safe and supportive work environment.

• Resources: Lots of resources to help you find and keep a job.

• Legal rights information: Knowledge about your rights in the workplace and how to advocate for yourself.

• Funding information: Knowledge about what funding is available to support you in the workplace.

The Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo offers a wide array of Exhibitors offering services such as mobility aids, home modifications, accessible travel options, financial advice, employment services and more. It's a one-stop shop for enhancing your quality of life. Enjoy the ease of having everything under one

roof so you can spend your day gathering information and making connections all in a single, convenient venue. Experience an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere where everyone is valued and respected. Our event is designed to be fully accessible, ensuring that all attendees can comfortably participate and engage with exhibitors and activities. Don't miss out on this exciting integrated event! With interactive exhibits, engaging presentations, and opportunities to

network with others in the disability community, our expo promises to be an inspiring and empowering experience. Join us and be part of a supportive community that celebrates diversity and inclusion.

Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre 22nd & 23rd Nov www.melbournedisabilityexpo.com.au and www.workabilityexpo.com.au

Dream Train rolling on in

By Sahar Foladi

A legendary Australian singer and songwriter will perform a

from his timeless hits in Dandenong next month.

Brian Cadd, a staple of Australian entertainment for over 50 years, will be at the Dandenong Club on 15 December as part of a tour of NSW and Victoria.

Fans can expect a thrilling mix of new tracks from his latest album, Dream Train, which soared to number one on the ARIA Country Album Chart and stayed in the top 20 for 17 consecutive weeks.

The eldest of four who grew up in Perth says he’s unsure why the Dream Train country music album garnered so much popularity, but it has been a “pretty amazing” experience.

“It’s lovely, I’ve experienced a lot of stuff and always been appreciative of having that chance of experiencing things not just here but around the world.

“Dream Train is an adventure I decided to take, and I was rewarded for, which is great.”

It’s an album that explores his journey over the years in the music industry.

Despite being a “rock n roll personality”, this is not his first venture into country music and it isn’t unusual for him to compile such an album

“It wasn’t too much of a step away to do a country album. A lot of the people saw it as an adventure for me.

“In some respects, it’s been amazing.”

He’ll be performing from the popular Dream Train in his visit to Dandenong and according to Cadd a lot of the audiences he’ll be performing for have been on the Dream Train.

“They’ve realised it’s a celebration of all the good things that has happened to me.”

Cadd has been on the road since 1966 and by the end of the 60’s he was at the studio producing people.

The record label founder, keyboardist, producer , singer-songwriter first picked up melodies at a very young age by playing the piano his family

inherited “like a lot of post-war families.”

From playing the abandoned piano at the corridor hall, he went on to write bits and pieces, took piano lessons, and started to mix with people who played instruments.

According to him, his mother transferred her

ambitions into him, and signed him up to perform Christmas specials at the age of 12.

“It had a band of young kids to do songs and I got the part of piano player and did the show.

“After that someone called my mother to ask if I would do the kids’ band show every week and

Mother said yes.”

His first solo hit, Ginger Man proved to be a “big step forward” for Cadd before he made the plunge.

It has become a “powerful memory and inspiration” to keep moving forward for Cadd.

Legendary singer-song writer Brian Cadd is coming to Dandenong in December. (Lisa Businovski)

Dinner with a VIEW

The next dinner meeting of the Dandenong Evening VIEW Club has the theme of Bake, Make and Grow. Supporting The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. New nembers and guests are very welcome. Bookings essential.

•Tuesday 12 November, 7pm at Dandenong RSL. Details: Brigitte, 0491 626 527.

Cultural Sketch

Join us to hear from, and sketch, a member of our arts community. The member will share their story, creative interests, arts practice, favourite music and other aspects that make up their creative world as they strike a pose for you to draw. Materials provided. Refreshments and alcohol served. Event is for people 18+.

•Tuesday 12 November, 6pm-8pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong. Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au/ e/859196829847?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Learn from an Employer

Online ZOOM sessions for jobseekers to meet local employers and learn about career pathways and required work skills. Topics are transport and logistics (12 November), manufacturing (14 November), health and care/support (19 November) and admin/customer service (21 November).

•6pm - 7pm. Free event, register at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/learn-from-employer

Sacred Unions: Queer cinema and performance

A showcase of selected short films and performances exploring queer notions of love and identity, preceded by an expert panel discussion hosted by Timmy Byrne from Kiss FM. The panel will include the evening’s curator Sam Kariotis, ACMI’s Zoe McDonald and two filmmakers to be announced. This event is part of the public program associated with the Josephine Mead: Matrimony exhibition.

•Thursday 14 November, 6pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong. Free event. Registrations required at eventbrite.com.au/e/sacred-unionsqueer-cinema-performance-and-installation-tickets-1001074479717?aff=oddtdtcreator

Empowering Women in Sport

Come and join us for a Panel Q&A, focusing on the

Trades & Services

Come and try pickleball

Get ready to serve up some fun at our free pickleball program. Open to all ages and skill levels. Wear caomfortable clothing and don’t forget to bring a drink bottle. All pickleball equipment will be provided as well as an expert coach to facilitate.

empowerment and development of women and girls in sport. Our inspiring panelists include Play

Like A Girl Australia founder Holly Bailey, Olympic bronze-medallist boxer Caity Parker, St Kilda AFLW captain Hannah Priest and ultra-marathon world record holder Dr Donna Urquhart.

•Thursday 14 November, 6.30pm-8.30pm at Tatterson Park Pavilion, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough. Free event, registrations required at forms.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/public-forms/ contact-empowering-women-in-sport-registrationform/

This Girl Can - Walking Football

Whether it’s with firends, family or solo, come to our Walking Football session and get moving for your own enjoyment. No experience or equipment required.

•Saturday 16 November, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Dan-

•Every Tuesday from 12 November-3 December, 5pm-7pm at Lois Twohig Tennis Courts, 80 Carlton Road, Dandenong North. Free event, registration required at forms.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/public-forms/comeand-try-pickleball-registration-form/

denong Soccer 5’s, 29 Brindley Street, Dandenong South. Free event.

Walk Against Family Violence

Meet at Dandenong Market and walk to Harmony Square for our annual walk against family violence.

Hear from guest speaker Simone O’Brien, a dedicated social change advocate who has lived experience of surviving family violence.

•Tuesday 19 November, from 11.15am at Dandenong Market, Cleeland Street. Hallam Friends of Red Cross

Last meeting for the year, open to the public. Come and have a cupper and a chat. All welcome. We are a very friendly group.

•Tuesday 19 November 10.30am-12pm at Hallam Community Learning Centre, 56 Kays Avenue. Details: Robert Read, 0455 566 570.

Neighbourhood Watch Q&A forum and AGM

Catch up with your local police, get tips on personal safety and hear about what’s happening in your area.

Guest speaker: Senior Sergeant Dave Smith, who has worked in Highway Patrol, proactive policing unit, youth offenders and missing persons. Light supper provided.

•Wednesday 27 November 7pm for 7.30pm start at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park. (Ample parking rear of centre off Frank Street)

Cornerstone Christmas Fete

Market stalls, unique handmade Christmas gifts, free face painting, sausage sizzle, crafts and prizes. Directly supports Cornerstone’s mission to help our community.

•Saturday 30 November, 9am-2pm at Cornerstone Contact Centre, Dandenong Baptist Church hall, 25 James Street Dandenong.

Red Cross Christmas Lunch

Hallam Friends of Red Cross will be having a Christmas lunch. We wish all members of red cross and the community, to enjoy the Christmas sprite with family and friends.

•Tuesday 3 December, 12pm at Dandenong Workers Club. Details: Robert Read, 0455 566 570.

We Built This City

Come and see stories behind Greater Dandenong’s favourite heritage places through short videos, historic objects, photographs and oral histories from Council and local historical society collections.

•Wednesdays and Thursdays (excluding public holidays) until 18 May 2025 at Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Free event.

Sandown Probus

Are you retired or semi-retired and would like to stay engaged and connected with others? Come along and see if you would like to join Sandown Probus Club. Enjoy the opportunity to make new friends, expand your interests, participate in the variety of activities and hear guest speakers on a wide range of subjects.

•2nd Monday of each month at Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park. Details: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/sandown or Marion, 0458 660 016.

and

Centrally located in the Hub is a café and Council is now looking for a savvy, perceptive and experienced operator from either a commercial, community or social enterprise sector to provide a welcoming experience with responsible refreshments and snacks that are affordable to the community.

We are now welcoming Expressions of Interest from interested operators up until 30 November 2024. To learn more about this exciting opportunity and be sent the Expression of Interest documentation, please email council@cgd.vic.gov.au

Bucks maul Maroons

By Marcus Uhe

North Dandenong has concluded the one-day portion of the new Dandenong District Cricket Association summer as the only Turf 1 side without a win and suffering a hammering to its percentage on the back of a nine-wicket thumping from Buckley Ridges.

Beginning at 1pm on Saturday at Park Oval, the contest was all wrapped-up within two-anda-half hours following a horror performance with the bat from the visitors.

Buckley Ridges brought the Maroons’ innings to a close in the 15th over for just 81 runs, led by seamer Ishan Jayarathna’s second-consecutive six-wicket haul, before completing the chase in the 13th over for the loss of only one wicket.

Jayarathna struck with the second and sixth balls of the innings to have Ramneet Dhindsa and Tahsinhullah Sultani’s tenures at the crease come to an end without scoring, before Hussain Ali joined in the act with the next two scalps to cut North Dandenong to 4/7.

In the process, North Dandenong skipper Imran Laghmani was forced to retire, leaving his side in further trouble.

At 7/13 the Maroons were in deep strife, but some late boundaries from Muhammad Dawa Khan and Ghairat Mangal pushed the total to 81.

Jayarathna finished with 6/30 and Hussain Ali 4/19 as the only two bowlers to grab wickets in the devastating display.

Buckley opener Josh Holden lost his wicket on the innings’ opening delivery but Ben Wright and Jake Cronin ensured there were no further blemishes on the scorecard.

Hallam Kalora Park’s victory over Springvale South has moved the Hawks behind Buckley Ridges and into second on the Turf 1 ladder, bettering a side that had previously had their measure by 61 runs.

It was a sensational spell of bowling from Hawks skipper Jordan Hammond that turned the tide of the contest, decimating the Bloods’ top order after another typically rapid start from Jordan Wyatt in their chase of 194.

WyattandMitchForysthputon49fortheopening wicket, before Hammond’s introduction into the attack in the sixth over saw the union broken.

Springvale South were gallopping along at just shy of 10 runs per over before Hammond came on, and with the first ball of his second over he had Wyatt caught behind for 33.

Stephen Hennessy was Hammond’s next victim for a 10-ball duck in his third over and after a brief stablising period from Blade Baxter and Cameron Forysth, Baxter was the next to go for 10.

Cam Forsyth and Paul Hill followed Baxter back to the pavilion shortly after as Springvale South fell to 6/82.

Jackson Sketcher and Nick Boland added a vital 49-run partnership to give their side a fighting chance but their tail did not wag, with the final four wickets falling with just one run added, the innings

reaching 132 when concluded in the 34th over.

Hammond finished with sublime figures of 4/10 from his nine overs, having bowled six maidens, as fellow seamers Lauchlan Gregson grabbed three and Will Whyte two.

Important contributions from Mahela Udawatte (52) and Ben Hillard (46 not out) in the first innings helped push the Hawks to 7/193 batting first as the Bloods’ bowlers returned to form.

54 runs was the Hawks’ largest partnership of the afternoon as regular wickets fell in the 45 overs, with the bowlers keeping the run rate below four for the duration of the innings.

Nick Boland showed his class by removing the key Hawks batting pillars of Leigh Booth and Udawatte in the top three.

Jarryd Straker, meanwhile, removed dangerous pair Damith Perera and Austin Fardell in the middle order and affected the run out of Lee Brown later in the innings.

Last summer, Springvale South did not lose its second match until round 13, and summer prior saw them lose just one home-and-away contest, leaving the current squad in borderline unprecedented territory.

Meanwhile, Berwick has claimed its opening win of the season with a thrilling final-over win over Beaconsfield.

The Bears chased Beaconsfield’s total of 170 with just one wicket in hand, with James Trodd backing up his five-wicket haul in the first innings by hitting the winning runs with four balls to spare.

On Sunday 3 November, Dandenong West leveled its win-loss record at two wins and two losses after thrashing Narre South at home.

After a long 90 overs the previous day against Hallam Kalora Park where they fell agonisingly short, the Bulls managed to put the disappointment behind them by thrashing the inconsistent Lions by five wickets, chasing their total of 101 in

the 31st over.

Winning the toss and opting to bat after a brilliant performance with the willow 24 hours prior against Springvale South, the Lions made a disastrous start by losing opening pair Kyle Hardy and Morteza Ali within the first seven deliveries of the innings without scoring.

Promoted to number four, Stephen Brooks and Vineth Jayasuriya added 25 runs until Jayasuriya lost his wicket to Adam Reid, before the Lions were cut back down to square one, losing Brooks, Jeevan Mendis and Riley McDonald in consecutive overs to be reeling at 6/33.

It was left to the tail to scrounge its way to something defendable, as Zac Wilson led a lateinnings fightback with 25, and Joel Zietsman added 21.

The innings last just 36 overs, however, with the Lions barely breaching the 100-run mark.

It was a tremendous bowling performance from the Bulls’ attack, with all five bowlers claiming scalps.

Leg-spinner Malinga Bandara was the only bowler not to take multiple wickets, but his 1/17 from nine overs was vital in building dot-ball pressure.

Narre South made early inroads with the ball and looked a chance at causing a boilover when Riley Siwes’ wicket reduced them to 4/57, but Venuk Hemachandra weathered the storm from the other end.

He made 34 to top-score for the Lions and by the time his wicket fell, just 27 more runs were required for victory.

Nuwan Kulasekara and Bailey Howarth finished the job with 14 overs remaining.

Mendis’ excellent start to the summer continued, taking 3/37 from his 12 overs.

Round 7 sees the opening week of two-day fixtures, headlined by Buckley Ridges hosting Springvale South.

Winning streak continues for Keysborough

By Marcus Uhe

Keysborough’s return to form has continued, becoming the first side to defeat Fountain Gate in Dandenong District Cricket Association Turf 3 action this summer on Saturday.

Despite a major collapse of 7/11 in the first innings, the Knights reached 140 thanks primarily to the efforts of Christo Otto and Shanaka Perumpuli, who combined for 91 runs.

Fountain Gate spinner Surya Pratap ripped through the Knights’ lower order and tail, finishing with 6/12.

The Gators lost wickets in clumps, including 4/8, 2/3 and 2/0 at different stages in the reply to succumb for 108.

Shantanu Gupta’s 23 was the highest score for the Gators, with no teammate passing 20.

Abhinay Motupalli took 3/32 for Keysborough and Otto 2/15.

At Springvale Reserve, Silverton returned to winning ways with a 64-run win over Narre North.

Contributions from Robert North (42), Harsha Dampahalage (65) and Varinder Verk (47) pushed the Bakers to 238, with Narre North

reaching just 174 in reply.

Silverton scored 5.37 runs per over but was dismissed in the final over of the innings, with Fazmin Mohamed taking 5/57 for the visitors.

It was an impressive performance with the bat from Narre North, having lost 5/40 to open

Hurley puts Panthers in command

By Marcus Uhe

A maiden five-wicket haul in Dandenong colours from seamer Noah Hurley has the Panthers on the brink of their second victory for the Premier Cricket Victoria summer against Greenvale at Shepley Oval. Backing-up after his solo effort with the ball against Northcote seven days prior, Hurley took 5/49, including four of the top five batters to help his side dismiss Greenvale for 199 in 63 overs.

The Kangaroos took the points after the first hour of play, reaching 1/96 after 29 overs but Hurley’s return to the attack for his second spell changed the game’s course.

He removed established opener Justin Galeotti and middle order players Angus Webb and Jordan Kosteas in quick succession before finishing his spell with the big breakthrough of Ryan Stingel, 10 runs shy of his hundred, as the visitors fell to 5/128.

Hurley returned later in the innings to assist in cleaning up the tail and claim his fifth wicket in the process, with the final three wickets of the Greenvale innings falling for just four runs.

James Nanopoulos grabbed 3/19 from his 14.2 overs as the support act to Hurley.

The Panthers reached 2/90 in their reply before stumps, with Brett Forsyth to resume on 36 and Shobit Singh on 40.

Joshua Slater and Dhanusha Gamage lost their wickets before the close of play, for seven and six runs respectively.

Dart league finals begin in earnest

A night of tension, good darts, poor mistakes and relief was on the menu in the first night of finals in all three divisions in the Mountain Dart League.

the innings.

Kamran Malik and Aydin Akin shared a 114run partnership for the sixth wicket, with Malik reaching 65 and Akin 50, but the next highest scores beyond theirs was just 10.

Harkanwal Singh and Dylan Hayes took three wickets each for Silverton.

Lynbrook thrashed Doveton by nine wickets, easily chasing 107 with nearly half their overs remaining.

Jatinder Singh grabbed 3/26 and Medie Dala 3/22 to continue a tale of woe for Doveton’s batters this summer, which is averaging just 99 runs per innings.

77 from James Kellett ensured the Lakers had little trouble reaching the target, completing the effort in the 26th over.

Berwick Springs snuck home by five runs against Hampton Park, dismissing the Lions for 165 in reply to 170.

Riley Hillman made 42 for the Titans in a welcome return to some runs.

Lynbrook, Fountain Gate, Keysborough and Silverton each have three wins to open the season and occupy the top four spots on the table.

The room was abuzz with excitement and high hopes as teams started their finals campaigns. Anyone interested in darts is welcome to come down and watch the finals take place in the newly upgraded facilities, which is a must to see for those interested in joining for next season.

DIVISION 1

• High 5’s def Bad Boys.

• Noble Park1 def V.I.P.

• 180s; Jamie Wolff, Aaron Simpson, Stevie Bell, Daro Lazalo, Gary Warner (x2).

• High 5’s goes directly into the Grand Final while Bad Boys plays Noble Park1 for a spot in the grand final.

DIVISION 2

• Redbacks1 def Spectrum. and goes directly into the Grand Final.

• Bandits def Stingrays.

• Redbacks 1 goes directly into the grand final while Spectrum plays Bandits for a spot in the grand final.

• 180s; Ash Canfor.

DIVISION 3

• The Night Trawlers def Sick 6’s.

• Madarras def The Goodies.

• The Night Trawlers goes directly into the grand final while Sick 6’s plays Madarras for a spot in the grand final.

Harsha Dampahalage top-scored for Silverton with 65 against Narre North. (Rob Carew: 442536)

Jordan Hammond was brilliant with the ball against Springvale South. (Rob Carew: 442537)

Roos just keep rolling on

By Marcus Uhe

Coomoora’s incredible run to begin its venture into Turf 2 of the Dandenong District Cricket Association has climbed to new heights as the sole remaining undefeated side from the first six weeks of action.

Forced to recover from yet another position of disadvantage against the other undefeated side to that point in the campaign in Parkmore, the Roos defended 145, dismissing the Pirates for 132 at home, moving into top spot on the Turf 2 table.

Jackson Noske’s departure from the batting crease saw Coomoora fall to 7/80 batting first after three single-figure scores and a duck in the top six.

Parkmore seamers Ankit Saxena and Avisha Wilwalaarachchi did the damage on the opening overs, with Saxena grabbing the wickets and Wilwalaarachchi keeping things tight at the other end.

39 from Adam Wheeler and 18 from Michael Klonaridis pushed the total to something defendable, and defend it they did, adding weight to the belief that they can win from any position.

Noske removed the dangerous Satheesh Fernandu with the opening ball of Parkmore’s innings, with the wickets of Ben Graham, Kyle Gwynne and Callum O’Connell all departing within the first 13 overs for scores of 10 or less, with the scoreboard reading 4/28.

Josh Tonna and Ammar Bajwa provided some calm and surety at the crease in a 24-run stand but the introduction of last week’s matchwinner in Malan Madusanka offered another turn in the game, removing both set batters in his second and third overs to cut the Pirates to 6/56.

The pressure fell to Parkmore’s number seven, Justin Roswell, in just his first innings of the year to guide the remainder of the chase.

He added 42 for the seventh wicket with Saxena, taking the Pirates to within 48 runs of victory, but when Saxena became Madusanka’s third victim, the Roos moved into the box seat once more.

Parkmore’s tail survived last week in a onewicket win over Cranbourne, but they failed to repeat the dose in round six, felled by the leg spin of Amarjot Singh.

He bowled just 3.1 overs at the back end of the innings but picked up the final three scalps, as he

continues to make an impact in new colours.

The Roos brought Parkmore’s innings to a close in the 38th over, 14 runs short of the target.

Both spinners, in Singh and Madusanka, finished with 3/9.

The bizarre season of Parkfield, meanwhile, continues, becoming the first team to lose to St Mary’s on Sunday.

After bowling the Saints out for 191, the Bandits fell 24 runs shy in their 45 overs with one wicket remaining.

76 from Duveen Arachchige pushed the Saints to 191 among a clutch of starts, with his score the only beyond 50.

Parkfield used seven bowlers with Travis D’Souza taking 4/47 and Hansika Kodikara grabbing 3/20.

Parkfield’s chase began poorly with the top three failing to fire once more.

They were 3/36 when D’Souza joined Shahwali Mosavi at the wicket, with their 47-run partnership the largest in the chase.

Scoring was tough for the Bandits, however, with the run rate below three for much of the chase, and despite seven batters reaching double figures, none went further than Mosavi’s 38, with most strike rates in the 50s.

Parkfield remained in with a chance at 6/145 but lost Steve Cannon, Kodikara and Sanjay Ka-

hawatte for the addition of just nine runs, with the final wicket pairing unable to reach the target.

St Mary’s recruit Rumesh Ranasinghe took 4/40 from his 12 overs.

After reaching last season’s grand final, Parkfield has just one win to show for its performances this summer.

Ben Mongomory’s Lyndale survived a century from Narre Warren batter Amila Ratnaike to claim its first win for the summer, reaching the 220-run target with two wickets in hand, and at Cranbourne, HSD returned to winning form in emphatic fashion with a five-wicket win over the Eagles, chasing their target down with five wickets remaining.

Hynes confident after midfield minutes and leadership

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Dandenong co-captain Cooper Hynes is confident in what he would be able to provide an AFL club after a scintillating 2024 at talent pathways level.

The explosive forward-midfielder averaged 24 disposals and kicked 23 goals from his 15 games for the Stingrays, to go with a solid National Championships campaign for Vic Country.

A strong-bodied, clearance-winning player with the capacity to take marks inside 50, Hynes has at least three clubs interested in the first round of the AFL National Draft on 20 November.

“I feel like I’m someone who’s super competitive, and I will come in and try to learn off the senior players and build connections with the players and staff and be good to have around the club,” the teenager said when asked what he’d offer an AFL club.

“On the field, I’m a fierce competitor and someone that can bring my strengths to the game and be confident in my own ability as well.”

Hynes played alongside now AFL-listed trio Harry DeMattia, Billy Wilson and Cooper Simpson in 2023, and also has a relationship with West Coast’s Harvey Johnston.

It has given the Rowville Sports Academy student an insight of life on AFL list.

“Lots of their advice is about connecting with people at the club,” he said.

“It’s your full time job and you’re going to see these people every day so building connections is a big thing to hold you in good stead.”

Hynes’ stocks have improved as the season has worn on, with his consistency both within games and across the course of the season going some way to answering question marks critics had over his conditioning.

At his exit meeting with ‘Rays coach Nick Cox last year, he was told to get fit and cut his hair.

The following day, his hair was chopped. By March, he’d had the best preseason of his life and had professionalised his diet and recovery, which laid the foundation for increased time in the midfield.

“I was super confident in how I would perform because I worked hard on what I needed to improve on and I was as fit as I’d ever been and strong as I’d ever been,” Hynes said.

“I had no doubts I would be able to show myself at a high level and put my best foot forward from round 1.

“I think it comes from preseason and that big block of hard work – if I have a quiet patch, I have the ability to get myself back in games so it’s definitely a mindset thing.

“I have the belief I can impact from anywhere helps me with my consistency.

“I’ve loved it - a goal for me was to move into the midfield more and more.

“It’s still pretty new to me, I’ve only been there for a couple of years so every game I play I feel like I’m getting better in that area and my fitness has been really good this year so I’m happy with how I’ve run out games.”

The 190cm talent was a match-winner when unleashed in the midfield, accelerating from traffic and brushing off tackles with ease and is hard to stop one-on-one inside 50.

While his power is a natural weapon, knowing when to use it is a part of his game that he has seen improvement in this year.

“The more you train as a midfielder, you’ll know situations where you use your power and other situations where you can give first option so getting that balance right between taking on the tackler and giving it off is something I’ve im-

proved,” Hynes noted.

“Getting my hands on the footy is a big one.

“When you get your hands on the ball, you can show what you can do and the decisions you make and being powerful and bursting out of stoppage as well has been one of the big goals.”

Playing predominantly inside 50 for Vic Country, Hynes was able to take his moments, kicking some trademark goals from stoppage and setting up teammates.

He then returned to the Stingrays, where he co-skippered them to the preliminary final.

Another piece of feedback given during his exit meeting last year was to develop his leadership, so standing up when his team needed it and communicating well with teammates was a big tick.

He’s captained alongside potential topfive selection Harvey Langford, with whom he shares a close bond off the field and plays a similar role to on-field.

Addressing the media at the AFL National Combine in October, Langford leapt at the opportunity to heap praise on his teammate.

Hynes indicated their relationship has been mutually beneficial as they have navigated the stresses of their top-aged year in 2024.

“We compete really hard against each other at training and always want to be better than each other,” Hynes said.

“We drive high standards with each other and have a good relationship on-field as well from training together.

“We’re able to find each other a fair bit which is handy.

“We’re super close mates and staying in touch especially in the next month, it will be important to have people you can talk to that are on the same path.”

The AFL National Draft will be held on 2021 November, before the rookie and preseason drafts the following day.

Cooper Hynes in action during a Vic Country trial match in April against the Young Guns. (Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos)

Too much was asked of Parkmore’s Justin Rowswell against Coomoora. (Rob Carew: 442538)