EHD Star Journal - 4th February 2025 by Star News Group

Fight for change

Hazara traders and community members are campaigning to change the name of the famous Afghan Bazaar precinct in Thomas Street Dandenong.

Under the proposal, the thriving food and retail shopping strip would be rebranded to Little Bamyan – in what proponents say will promote better cultural understanding.

Group spokesperson Barat Batoor says the Hazara community had been long “dissatisfied”

with the name Afghan Bazaar.

‘Afghan’ is a synonym of ‘Pashtun’ which is the name of the ruling ethnic group in Afghanistan and a “controversial term” imposed on Hazaras, in light of the country’s reported Hazara genocide, Batoor said.

“The name should be inclusive and represent the contribution of the Hazara community in transforming the once deserted street into a now thriving business centre.

“Little Bamyan better portrays the rich history of Afghanistan, and the stakeholders in the Bazaar will have a sense of belonging and pride.”

Some business owners however told Star Journal they were concerned the renaming may cause unnecessary disunity within the wider Afghanistan community.

Greater Dandenong strategic and environmental planning manager Brett Jackson last

week said the current term is considered to be a “representative of diverse and historical cultural perspectives of all Afghanis”.

“As such at this time council doesn’t have any plans to rename.”

The Little Bamyan group is expected to petition the council for a name change this month.

Grants for the community

Applications for our 2025/26 Community Grants Program and 2025–28 Event Funding Program are now open.

Grants of up to $5,000 are available to support community programs, projects and events, while financial assistance of up to $25,000 for three years is available for large or significant events.

Applications close at 5:00 pm on Friday 14 March.

For more information and to apply, please visit the ‘Grants for the Community’ page on our website or scan the QR code. If you require assistance with your application or have any queries, please email gofficer@casey.vic.gov.au

Storm v Cowboys at Casey Fields

Melbourne Storm is heading to Casey Fields for a pre-season game against the North Queensland Cowboys.

To be held on Sunday 23 February at 5:15 pm, Storm fans will also have the opportunity to watch three curtain raisers before the kick-off — Storm Under 17s, Storm Under 19s and the Storm Female Development Squad.

An open Storm training session will also be held Saturday 22 February at Casey Fields from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information and to book your tickets to the game, scan the QR code.

Stay safe around schools

With kids now back at school, please remember it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure they get to and from school safely.

Drivers, pedestrians and cyclists should always be aware of our school zones and take extra care, especially during the busy drop off and pick up times, while following the reduced speed limits as signed.

Scan the QR code for more information.

Clean Up Australia Day

Anyone who would like to help remove rubbish from Casey’s many waterways, parks and community spaces can either join a registered Clean Up Australia event or register your own local site.

Registered sites receive clean-up kits from Clean Up Australia, and the City of Casey is offering a $50.00 rebate per site for volunteer refreshments, as well as other services to help the day go smoothly.

Clean Up Australia Day is happening on Sunday 2 March To find out more, scan the QR code.

Ackland Park Reserve redevelopment project

Ackland Park Reserve in Narre Warren North is about to undergo a facelift, with a range of new and exciting elements suggested by community.

The reserve will be closed to the public from 17 February until mid-June to complete the works. We look forward to delivering a new space very soon.

Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more or scan the QR code.

Rising costs sting

by Cam Lucadou-Wells

Greater Dandenong Council has put the brakes on an aquatic centre project as its finances have taken a hit, according to its revised 2024’25 mid-year budget.

In a report tabled on 28 January, the increasingly cash-strapped council announced a $789,000 “unfavourable” result fueled by rising costs.

This was softened by deferring $28 million of spending and borrowings on the future $100-million-plus Dandenong Wellbeing Centre “based on a recent review of future cash flow projections”.

Greater Dandenong also deferred $650,000 of spending on its CCTV renewal program until 2025-’26.

This was used to fund a “high priority” resurfacing of Dandenong Stadium courts after a player’s leg went through floorboards.

Spending on the Dandenong Community Hub project was also transferred to develop the Dandenong Market Precinct Master Plan.

According to the report, rising cost pressures were “placing immediate pressure on Council’s financial sustainability”.

Contract costs for tree pruning, cleaning, security

and animal pound services had blown out by more than $3.4 million, the report stated.

Another unbudgeted impost was $359,165 on legal expenses during the Sandown Racecourse Advisory Committee Hearing last year.

Chief executive Jacqui Weatherill told the 28 January meeting that all local governments were “grappling with cost escalations” in what was a “statewide problem”.

The council voted to transfer $2.5 million from its major projects reserve to

fund the unexpected demolition of the Precinct Energy Plant building in Dandenong.

The PEP, which was planned to be a future community arts hub, was found structurally defective and unable to withstand a significant earthquake.

Over the past six months, the council also transferred major project reserves to the long-delayed $12 millionplus Dandenong New Art gallery project ($1.82 million) as well as to acquire and demolish 9A Blissington Street

Springvale for open space ($1.01 million).

The report recommended maximizing the use of surplus funds from the reserve, with concerns over the council’s “significant future borrowings” at expectedly high interest rates.

On the positive side of the ledger for 2024-’25 were higher-than-expected state grants, parking fines, infringements, interest on rate arrears and supplementary rates.

Mongols member faces charges

A patched member of Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang has been charged over two incidents after police raids in Mulgrave and Port Melbourne.

Police say a Mongols member targeted an L-plate motorcyclist travelling inbound on Monash Freeway on Saturday 19 October last year.

Riding in a pack of Mongols motorcyclists, the member allegedly tried to punch and kick the learner as they rode past.

The L-plater took evasive action to avoid being assaulted and forced off his motorcycle, police say.

On Saturday 11 January, a motorcycle rider was overtaken by a motorcyclist making a rude hand gesture on a black Harley Davidson on Victoria Avenue, Springvale.

The Harley Davidson rider dismounted, walked towards the victim and produced a sawn-off shotgun, police allege.

The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to ﬁnd a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.

The Kinder Tick recognises kinder programs that are led by a qualiﬁed teacher.

It highlights kindergartens and long day care centres that offer play-based programs to help children learn and grow, before they start school.

No threats or demands were alleged, nobody was physically injured during the incident.

On Tuesday morning 28 January, Echo Taskforce, Special Operations Group, Dog Squad and Australian Federal Police raided a Mulgrave home and a Port Melbourne clubhouse.

A 30-year-old Mulgrave man was arrested and charged with being a prohibited person carrying a firearm, and with possessing a firearm when a Firearm Prohibition Order applies. Other charges include three counts of unlicensed driving, possessing methylampetamine, possessing heroin, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, common law assault, dangerous driving, failing to stop on police direction and driving a vehicle without number plates.

He was expected to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 29 January.

It also identiﬁes services that are approved for Victorian Government funding.

Greater Dandenong Council transferred $2.5 million of major project reserves to demolish the structurally-defective Precinct Energy Plant. (Gary Sissons: 449565)

NEWS Push to rename precinct

By Sahar Foladi

A group of Hazara community members are seeking a renaming of the famous Afghan Bazaar to Little Bamyan in a push for better cultural understanding.

The group also consists of traders on Thomas Street Dandenong who say a name change would better reflect Hazara businesses’ near-20 years of contribution in the area.

Barat Batoor is among several who attended a City of Greater Dandenong Council meeting on Tuesday 28 January to request the name change, but was turned down.

He intends to table a petition ahead of the next council meeting on Monday 10 February.

Batoor told Star Journal there has always been “dissatisfaction” within the Hazara community regarding the name.

“We consulted widely with community members, business owners in Dandenong and they all favour this rename.

“The name should be inclusive and represent the contribution of the Hazara community in transforming the once deserted street into a now thriving business centre, creating jobs, contributing economically to the economy of the Greater Dandenong Council and attracting tourists for almost 20 years now.

“I hope the representatives of the community in the council will hear the request of Hazaras.

“Little Bamyan better portrays the rich history of Afghanistan, and the stakeholders in the Bazaar will have a sense of belonging and pride.”

He says ‘Afghan’ is a synonym of ’Pashtun’ which is the name of the ruling ethnic group and a “controversial term imposed on other ethnic groups, especially Hazaras,” referring to the ongoing Hazara genocide within the country, forcing them to call Australia and cities like Greater Dandenong home.

The name change is crucial to the ever-increasing Hazara community in Greater Dandenong to educate and spread cultural awareness including about the rich history of Bamyan.

Hazara people are one of the largest ethnic minority groups within Afghanistan mainly residing in Hazarajat (or Hazaristan) with Bamyan being one of the largest cities in Hazarajat.

Ibrahim and Ataullah, who are also Hazaras, have been successfully operating Maiwand Supermarket in the precinct since 2012.

They say Hazaras merely need the term ‘Afghan’ removed from them since the term is imposed on them in Afghanistan under the ruling terrorist group.

However, not all of the current business owners in Afghan Bazaar are Hazara people. Some have moved in the busy centre after they bought the shops from original owners who may have been Hazara.

Mujtaba and his family bought the now Bamyan store back in 2013 from original owners who were Hazara people.

He says the renaming wouldn’t make a difference to them or their operation.

Other business owners told Star Journal they aren’t against the renaming of the precinct but reluctant to support it, believing that it may cause an unnecessary disunity within the wider Afghan community that could also impact negatively on businesses.

Greater Dandenong strategic and environmental planning manager Brett Jackson responded at the meeting that the current term is considered to be a “representative of diverse and historical cultural perspectives of all Afghanis”.

“As such at this time council doesn’t have any plans to rename however council will continue to welcome all communities to Greater Dandenong

and to support all communities where it can.”

Councillor Rhonda Garad says she supports the initiative considering the rename to be vital in acknowledging the “layers of diversity” within Greater Dandenong which prides itself of its multiculturalism.

“When people see the multicultural area Dandenong, it has had successful waves of migrants, we are extremely mature and we welcome having greater understanding of particular groups of our society rather than large blanket terms of Afghan.

“It’s time the community understand who they are, their rich cultural history and geographical location.

“I think it will go well for everyone and I understand people who may not be in favour of it but there’s a strong desire and energy behind this.”

Garad says the rename will help to “increase the tourist visitation” as well as educate the wider community about Bamyan and its history and form better cultural understanding.

On Monday 31 October 2022, the council endorsed a motion which condemned the es-

calation of genocidal violence against the Hazara people in Afghanistan after the Taliban took power.

The motion also committed to a 20,000 emergency additional humanitarian visa intake from Afghanistan focusing on the “at-risk groups“ like Hazara people and included a round-table of Australian-Hazara people sharing concerns for their families in Afghanistan.

Security call as hub traders fed up with break-ins

By Sahar Foladi

Traders in the Dandenong Hub arcade say more security measures could help to deter antisocial behaviours and unwanted intruders at night-time.

Many of the traders have been operating at the arcade for more than 20 years.

As reported previously by Star Journal, the arcade of 67 leased shops is privately owned by several entities, leaving small business owners nowhere to turn for help.

Karan Singh and his family have owned a fabric store for 25 years on the Walker Street side where it’s safe with no break-ins he says.

But the family bought a second store just across the first one on the opposite side of the Hub, which they claim is run by another body corporate and within 11 months of that store they started to see all kinds of issues.

“There’s a break-in once every two weeks now, You go upstairs, something’s always getting broken in. It hasn’t been this bad ever.

“Recently the Australia Day weekend just passed, we had two or three days off. It’s almost expected when you come back something’s going to be wrong.”

Mr Singh says there’s only one security officer at one time between 2pm-6pm with the other security officer not starting until midnight, leaving troublemakers roaming around freely.

“If you look at the security in the Plaza compared to the security here, it’s completely different. They’re all on top of things, they’re all in action.

(Sahar Foladi: 456864)

“The security we get is very ineffective.

“Just the other day yesterday I told some kids from here to leave because they were spraying soft drinks around everywhere.”

Mark Mannens who has rented his record label store since 1988 is one of the “lucky ones”. He has been able to hold on at the Hub since the nearby Plaza made the arcade “redundant.”

“There are still quite a few little specialty stores around here, which have been able to survive.

“It has changed a lot, not only in appearance - it still looks like it’s stuck in the 1980’s - but also because there’s nowhere near as many people walking through anymore and nowhere near as many customers.”

He has had two break-ins within six months. The front window of his shop is broken, now replaced by a wooden door as they wait for repairs to be completed.

Dylan has been working at the store since 2000, saying “it has never been this bad, ever.”

“At the moment, even if someone’s in the building, not a single alarm goes off. The cops aren’t alerted in any shape or form.

“So, the guy he was here for at least an hour because he turned our whole shop inside out and our neighbours’ (shop).

“They got footage of him just having a smoke at one point, not even rushing. It’s crazy to me.”

According to the traders, the entrance of the arcade which faces the bus stops in Langhorne Street can be easily forced opened, even if locked, with no one to claim responsibility.

Mr Mannens wants the various managerments to “actually get together and make deci-

sions which everybody agrees on”.

“I’m sure it’s a nightmare (to get together) but there’s still no excuse for letting this stuff go on for as long as it has. “

Traders say the break-ins are mainly committed by a middle-aged man, who they’ve also caught on CCTV before. They only wonder why he’s never caught by police or otherwise let out again.

Stephen Rodgers, the head of the Dandenong Hub Committee also advocating for better conditions, used to own a food business before he called it quits.

Now he owns a few stores at the Hub saying hiring security doesn’t come cheap and that Victoria Police should be “pro-active.”

“With what we’re paying now it’s beyond what we can afford.

“The biggest problem is if the police are not pro-active, it’s not their fault - it’s the law.

“If people are drinking in public and they can’t arrest them, security guards can’t do much. They need far more power.

“When the police do catch these people, they don’t do anything about them. They just leave them on the street to go back in again or break into someone else’s premises.

“The entire police force needs to be redirected; they need to use their resources to focus on the problem area to stamp out the problem.”

Greater Dandenong Council chief executive officer Jacqui Weatherill told Star Journal that the council is not responsible for “maintaining or improving this building.”

Karan Singh inside his second fabric shop where there has been a lot of break-ins.

Mark Mannens with Dylan on the left, have had the shop since 1988, with two break-ins within six months recently. (456864)

A group of Hazara traders and community members are keen to rename Afghan Bazaar to Little Bamyan. (Stewart Chambers: 455477)

Kabul Roundabout Pizza and Takeaway owners with supporters of the Little Bamyan push. (455477)

Soil clean-up goes to VCAT

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A soil-works operator is resisting an order to clean up a giant dirt mound allegedly contaminated with asbestos in Bangholme’s Green Wedge.

ESI Projects Pty Ltd had been ordered by EPA Victoria to cease accepting excavated material and to remove any confirmed contaminated soil at the 576 Frankston-Dandenong Road site by 28 February.

However, the operator - who has deserted the site - has since applied to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for a review of the soil removal order, EPA Victoria confirmed.

More than 500 residents at Willow Lodge retirement village live 400 metres to the north.

Several fear that ESI Projects had ‘cut and run’ and left them at risk of toxic wind-blown soil dust during summer.

EPA Southern Metropolitan Regional Manager Viranga Abeywickrema said: “We are continuing to monitor activities at the site to ensure that risk to the community remains low.”

“But as the matter is now before the Tribunal, EPA will not be making any further comments.”

Greater Dandenong Council recently stated it was taking action due to a breach of the earthworks planning permit.

Council chief executive Jacqui Weatherill said Greater Dandenong was “actively working to resolve this matter”.

“To ensure the best outcome it is important our enforcement activities remain confidential.

“However, we will provide the community an update when it is appropriate to do so.”

In August, the EPA had issued a notice to investigate the towering soil stockpile with alleged Category-D “low-level contamination” with toxic asbestos and heavy metals.

This was in alleged breach of the operator’s EPA licence to accept clean-fill soil only.

It ordered the operator to “cordon off” the pile

and remove the affected soil to a licensed landfill.

Late November, the EPA issued a second NonDisturbance notice over a second waste pile containing a “small amount of construction and demolition waste”.

Predatory teacher pleads guilty but avoids jail time

By Corey Everitt and Cam Lucadou-Wells

A former primary school teacher and baseball coach who pleaded guilty to the sexual assault and grooming of children has avoided jail time and will serve three years on recognisance-release and correction orders.

Nicholas O’Shea, 31, of Pakenham, preyed on nine teenage boys, many of whom he had either met as a teacher or as a baseball player and coach across the South East for a period of 11 years.

O’Shea pleaded guilty to 13 State and Commonwealth charges relating to sexual assault, grooming, and indecent acts in the presence of others.

The charges relate to nine victims, all young men with some under the age of 16 at the time of offending.

On Friday 31 January, Victorian County Court judge Stewart Bayles sentenced O’Shea to 12 months imprisonment but immediately released on a $2000 recognisance release order for three years – similar to a suspended jail term.

This was accompanied by a community corrections order over the same period.

Twelve of the 13 offences occurred between 2012 and 2020 with the last offence in August 2023.

O’Shea befriended his victims on socialmedia app Snapchat when some of them were as young as 15.

He would send nude photos and request the same from the boys.

He also sent graphic videos of himself, and plied the boys with alcohol, groped, spooned and propositioned them.

A defence submission argued against jail time citing lack of prior convictions, “frank and honest” cooperation with police, O’Shea’s youthfulness during most of the offending, his engagement in treatment and

“true remorse” including a “willingness” to apologise to each victim in-person.

A psychological report stated O’Shea was “socially and emotionally immature” with “difficulty accepting” his homosexuality which results in “shame and paranoia”.

It found he had “a moderate risk of reoffending” determined by his “empathy for the victims”, “lack of criminality” and sustained commitment to treatment and alcohol abstinence.

Prosecutor Zoran Petric argued for immediate jail time with a non-parole period stating the “significant need” for the “protection of community” and a “just punishment” for his action.

O’Shea’s actions were a “gross breach of trust” marked by a “persistence” in offending, Petric submitted.

His action had a “wide-reaching impact” on the victims and the community as a former “role model” within the groups he participated in.

Judge Bayles said he must balance the need to punish and deter O’Shea as well as promoting his rehabilitation - which in turn would protect the community from further offending.

The victim impact statements showed the impacts of his actions are “far-reaching” on the victims, the parents, and the wider community, he noted.

O’Shea’s three-year community corrections order, including 300 hours of unpaid work, a sexual offenders’ rehab program and treatment for alcohol and mental health issues.

As part of the CCO, O’Shea will be supervised and judicially monitored.

He must report as a registered sex offender for life.

Some fragments were being sampled and analysed for potential asbestos.

Meanwhile, works have also stopped at a waste-water and soil transfer station at the same address, with its operator GND Civil Group lodging a VCAT appeal for a permit.

In September, Greater Dandenong Council cited 19 grounds for refusing a permit for operationtakinginabout20,000litresofslurryamonth. GND Civil has been operating the soil transfer station for several years, with the council refusing two permit applications in 2022 and this year.

Sustainability Festival

A view of the soil mound from Frankston-Dandenong Road last year. (Gary Sissons: 429817)

Eyes on the road to success

By Sahar Foladi

Young and internationally-recognised racer

Giancarlo Artho has added another recognition

his

as Greater Dandenong Council’s Sportsperson of the Year.

The motorsports enthusiast and Greater Dandenong resident has been chasing his dream of being a Formula One driver from a very young age.

Giancarlo’s determination has led him to travel across the world, taking part in competitions.

However, being recognised at the Greater Dandenong Council’s Australia Day Awards on Sunday 26 January, was the most special for him.

“I didn’t expect it at all, I was very surprised when I was told but it was a special feeling to be recognised by my own community.

“I have lived here in Greater Dandenong my entire life, I attend school here, I was raised here and I’ve worked here.”

The now 17-year-old was selected in 2023 among 23 other professional go-kart racers from the Asia Pacific and Oceania to compete for the coveted 2023 Ferrari Driver Academy in Malaysia at the Sepang International Circuit.

A GoFundMe page attracted community contributions to make the trip happen for Giancarlo.

“That was the track I played video games a lot as a young kid. It was very nostalgic in a way that I drove on it.

“There was uncertainty whether I’ll get chance to race or drive one of the cars, after I came back from Malaysia.

“I was finding ways to get myself into it and I came across an opportunity which was another scouting camp, F4 Indian Global Selection Shootout Program held in France where the winner would win a full scholarship to the Indian F4 Championship.”

He was one of the 10 drivers selected for the full scholarship which allowed him to race

in South India from August through to November last year.

The scholarship was what Giancarlo and his family needed, as the exorbitant participation costs made it otherwise almost impossible for him to continue his dreams.

Giancarlo’s parents have always supported him as a family despite the challenges and financial pressure.

His mother Luci says they’re “beyond proud” of their son.

“The fact he won that scholarship proves he’s got it… it was euphoria.

“He went to India, did Formula 4 seriesunfortunately he had a lot of mechanical issues with his vehicle, which wasn’t the opportunity it should’ve been.

“A lot of the time he couldn’t drive it. When he was able to drive he was doing exceptionally well.”

Now he finds himself in the same situation as last year, not knowing when he’d be able to drive those cars again.

However everything comes down to winning another sponsorship for competition this year.

His goal is to find a sponsor and compete in Europe but for now he will keep himself in shape.

Our corporate citizen Rob

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Famously ebullient butcher Rob Boyle has been crowned City of Greater Dandenong’s Corporate Citizen of the Year.

For 33 years, Rob’s British & Irish Butchery with its pork pies, black puddings and haggis has become a big part of Dandenong’s food mecca.

Boyle – whose high- energy visage has often featured in Star Journal – says good humour and spirits are essential as a butcher.

“It’s a hard job. If you’re a miserable b******, it’s a very hard life.

“Most butchers are naturally good with customers. It’s not put on.”

Yet it took “10 years of heartache, late nights and a lot of stress” to build his success.

“We didn’t make a red cent for 10 years. I was $60,000 behind in my rent and behind in my bills – though people had a little more leeway in those days.”

Now his speciality meats are sought by international travellers, Food Safari tourists and attracts praise on social media from around the world.

“These days someone gets one of your pork pies, gets on Facebook and tells the world. It’s brilliant for us.

“We have about 14,000 followers and we get messages from Croatia and Poland and others who say they wish we were closer to them.”

Growing up in England, Boyle fell into butchery after originally wanting to be a carpenter.

“I was good at woodwork as a kid and liked to use my hands. But it didn’t work out – there were no jobs.”

He applied for an advertised job at a supermarket’s butchery.

In a stroke of luck, his family’s former local butcher was in charge. He recognised Boyle, who used to pick up errands for his mum, and gave him a job.

“I never looked back. I’ve always been in work.”

In Dandenong, Boyle first worked for butcher Peter Smith before forging his own business, a traditional “red meat” shop Rob’s Continental Butchers set in Palm Plaza.

Things didn’t start to fire until Boyle responded to ‘niche’ requests such as black puddings and pork pies.

He looked up traditional recipes for black pudding, sourced blood from an abattoir and found the food was a hit.

As Boyle diversified with his self-made steak

pies, English bacon and gammon, he found he had no time for the traditional red meats line.

“I saw the future was to cater for the English and Irish customer. We got a lot of Europeans, especially older ones who couldn’t find those speciality meats anymore.”

A great collector of cookbooks, one of his treasures is a US book listing 330 sausage recipes from around the world.

Greater Dandenong’s cultural diversity has proven to be a strength, he says.

“This place is now a food mecca with beautiful food from around the world.”

Boyle was announced as Corporate Citizen of the Year at City of Greater Dandenong’s Australia Day awards last month.

F4 racer Giancarlo Artho won the Sportsperson of the Year at this year’s Greater Dandenong Council Australia Day Awards. (Gary Sissons: 456333)

Giancarlo Artho, shortly after coming back from F4 racing in India. (Gary Sissons: 456333)

Rob Boyle and wife Jill Boyle with the recently-awarded Corporate Citizen of the Year certificate. (Gary Sissons: 456271)

Rob Boyle with green pork sausages for St Patrick’s Day in 2018. (Gary Sissons: 178758)

Rob Boyle pitching in for the Good Friday Appeal in 2023. (Gary Sissons: 178758)

High note for choir stalwart

By Ava Cashmore

When Sue Doherty received the phone call informing her that she had been nominated for the 2025 Greater Dandenong Community Leadership Award, she was caught completely off guard.

And her “quiet January” became quite the opposite when she was announced as the winner of the council’s top award on Australia Day.

“I was honoured to be nominated, but to be chosen for the Community Leadership Award—I was elated,” she said.

“There are so many people in leadership roles and volunteering in different councils. You don’t do it for recognition, so it really was a surprise.”

For over three decades, Sue has been involved in numerous volunteer activities.

She is best known for her role as coordinator for the last 15 years of the With One Voice Greater Dandenong Choir.

The atmosphere in the choir is nothing short of ‘uplifting’, said Sue.

For many, it’s more than just a place to sing— it’s a support network, a social lifeline, and a source of unbreakable friendships.

“People arrive with their worries and stresses, but by the end of rehearsal, you can see the joy on their faces,” Sue says.

“It’s a beautiful thing to witness.”

During the Covid pandemic, Sue ensured that the choir also remained connected.

She established a phone tree to make sure that isolated members of the choir could stay in touch with each other, and also found an alternative outdoor rehearsal venue to ensure the choir could continue singing together safely.

With One Voice Greater Dandenong Choir conductor Cherie Baxter says Sue created a “safe and welcoming space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together, find their voices, and experience the joy of singing”.

Enya Cai, the general Manager of Creativity Australia and With One Voice choirs says Sue is an “exceptional example of dedication and selflessness”.

“Sue is the person everyone feels immediately drawn to, a generous and kind soul.

“She has spent her life volunteering for many

Camper-van upended in Bypass crash

A campervan overturned during a three-vehicle crash on Dandenong Bypass in Dandenong South on Thursday afternoon, 30 January.

Ambulance Victoria paramedics treated a man in his 50s and a man in his 60s for minor injuries at the scene near the corner of Frankston-Dandenong Road about 4.30pm. Both were taken to Dandenong Hospital in a stable condition.

Outbound lanes on the bypass between Hammond Road and Frankston-Dandenong Road were closed during that evening’s peaktime.

She founded the Ladies’ interest group, originally called the Homemakers Group, when she noticed that some women in her community lacked interests outside of family life.

“We’ve been through life together,” she said.

She hosts a monthly dinner in her home for 12 women, and organises volunteer guest speakers from various professions—doctors, police officers, and even bra-fitting specialists—to provide new knowledge and conversation topics.

“People need another sphere in their life. They shouldn’t be pigeonholed. It’s about feeling included,” she said.

Her commitment to community engagement also extends to the Dingley Tennis Club, where she has played for 45 years.

She served on the club’s committee for 22 years and is now a life member.

Despite stepping back from administrative duties, she still runs the Midweek Ladies competition and continues to play competitive tennis herself.

But Sue doesn’t stop there.

Every Monday, she manages the office at the local Neighbourhood Centre, a role she has held for over 30 years.

During the Covid pandemic, she launched a “Chatty Cafe” on Wednesday mornings.

organisations, and thousands of people have benefited from the magic of her care, humour and compassion.”

Sue’s dedication to community service comes with an intense schedule. She is also running a ladies’ interest group for single women, a tradition she has maintained since 1992.

The initiative offered free tea, coffee, and baked goods, encouraging people to engage with one another.

“A lot of people weren’t coming back into the community after Covid,” she said.

“This was a way to bring them together again.”

The Things You Love

Welcome to Belvedere Aged Care Noble Park. A familyowned and operated residential aged care home offering you a comfortable, safe and secure home environment.

We proudly embrace all vibrant and multicultural communities with our resident-led and community focused spiritual and culturally rich lifestyle programs.

To find out more, call us today or visit our website belvedere.com.au

Sue Doherty has been recognised with Greater Dandenong’s 2025 community leadership award. (Stewart Chambers: 456602)

A campervan rolled over in the multi-vehicle collision on Dandenong Bypass on Thursday 30 January. (Gary Sissons: 456720)

The crash scene including an upended camper van. (Gary Sissons: 456720)

Police probe Dandy blaze

A man has been taken to hospital with minor injuries after a suspicious fire at a boarding home in Frederick Street Dandenong.

Police were called out to the residence about 1.40am on Wednesday 29 January and noticed the fire in a weatherboard dwelling at the rear of the lot.

Four FRV crews brought the fire under control within six minutes of arrival.

A man was treated by Ambulance Victoria and taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Later that day, police were investigating the gutted, ashen dwelling, which was cordoned off with police tape. The property’s front nature strip was laden with ‘hard rubbish’, beside a car with a fractured windscreen.

“The circumstances surrounding the fire are yet to be determined but it is being treated as suspicious,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

LOOKING BACK

100 years ago

5 February 1925

Brilliant students

Miss Marie Facey, of the Dandenong High School, has obtained a secondary studentship at the Teacher’s College. This entitles her to a course at the University to complete her degree of Arts and Education. It is tenable for three or four years, and during that time she may reside at the college and attend lectures at the University free of cost. A student is paid an allowance during the term of the studentship.

50 years ago

6 February 1975

A male takes over

Cleeland High School has its first male Principal. He is Mr Don Laird who replaces Miss Brenda Fitzpatrick. Miss Fitzpatrick has been transferred as Principal to Wattle Park High after a number of years at Cleeland High School. Mr Laird has the unique distinction of being

Cleeland High School’s first male Principal, as the school, in its inception was a girls’ school since going co-ed. The school now caters for boys to Form Three standard. The enrolment is about 650.

20 years ago

7 February 2005

100-year deluge

Flooding in many parts of Greater Dandenong last week was the result of rainfall that has been described as a once in 100-year event.

In the 24 hours from 8am last Wednesday, Greater Dandenong and Casey received more than 120 millimetres of rain, the largest since records were kept in 1856. Amazingly, in a single day, the rainfall accounted for 23 percent of Melbourne’s average annual total.

5 years ago

4 February 2020

Doing justice differently

Dandenong Magistrates Court has become the

12th location in Victoria to host an Adult Koori Court, after its official opening in an emotional and uplifting ceremony on Friday 24 January. The launch event incorporated aspects of Aboriginal culture, including a smoking ceremony, and acknowledged the many years of work involved to get Koori Court up and running in Dandenong. Koori Court, which is a division of the Magistrate’s Court, aims to address and reduce the offending behaviour by including the Koori community in the court process. They are less formal than regular Magistrates’ Court sittings, using plain English rather than legal terminology. The parties sit around a table with the magistrate leading a conversation about sentencing that includes input from the accused’s family, a Koori Court officer, and an elder or respected Person who provides cultural advice. To have a matter dealt with in the Koori Court, a person must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, plead guilty and take responsibility for their offending.

Make meaningful change with unified, pure resolutions

By Rowena Eghanian of the Baha’i Community of Greater Dandenong

We have experienced the festivities of the sea son; now the cracking, loud herald of New Year is upon us: and with it the ever-loud promotion of New Year resolutions.

Somewhere in all this, I hope you are finding moments of peace and joy.

Not from material things wrapped up or obtained – but rather, in finding yourself: being present in places, with people and importantly the abundance of divine and spiritual gifts that abound us from the observation of our natural surroundings.

As we have said farewell to 2024, many people felt the weight of the world upon them. Economic, global, and national concerns

MESSAGE OF

weigh heavily, amid personal worries that we each navigate. So the usual resolutions cast at us from our accumulated algorithms are once again likely to be loud and fleeting. How can we each action meaningful change for 2025?

In the Baha’i writings a resolution is offered

that we can aim to implement - all year round:

“We must now highly resolve to arise and lay hold of all those instrumentalities that promote the peace and well-being and happiness, the knowledge, culture and industry, the dignity, value and station, of the entire human race.

“Thus, through the restoring waters of pure intention and unselfish effort, the earth of human potentialities will blossom with its own latent excellence and flower into praiseworthy qualities

What kind of efforts can we each cultivate; to aid these praiseworthy qualities to blossom?

• Let’s begin and end each day with gratitude: gratitude for life, and the love of the Creator each one of our lives represents.

• Love: expressed not only in words but through

unselfish actions - to our entire (human) family.

• Time: quiet and solitary meditation looking inwardly on thoughts, feelings and inherent spiritual qualities; identifying which qualities could be refined or strengthened in 2025?

• Service: efforts which contribute to the wellbeing of community and by further extension to the uplifting transformation of society.

• Commitment: volunteering time, knowledge, efforts, skills. Conscientiously adjusting personal attitudes, working to eliminate any ingrained prejudices: striving for peace. This New Year let’s shed the worry of the weight and each commit to expand our care, attention and hope for the world – with unified, pure and intentional resolutions.

A car with a damaged front windscreen and hard rubbish in front of the post-fire scene. (456498)

The fire-damaged dwelling. (456498)

Police were investigating a suspicious fire at a rear building at Frederick Street Dandenong. (456498)

Police tape, hard rubbish and an unroadworthy car with a damaged front windscreen in front of the Frederick Street dwelling. Police were investigating a suspicious fire at a rear building at Frederick Street Dandenong. (Gary Sissons: 456498)

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

Magistrate Rose Falla, Victoria’s first Indigenous magistrate, during the smoking ceremony marking the opening of Dandenong’s Koori Court in 2020. (Rob Carew: 203614)

Antarctica more than penguins and icebergs

IF travelling to Antarctica is high on the bucket list, and the one destination you yearn to visit, it is time to let the experts at Viking introduce you to this cultural and scenic land.

Viking cruises are not only designed for those wanting to relax but also for those travellers seeking more interaction with the continent they are visiting.

Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition ships the Viking Octantis, and the Viking Polaris have been designed so guests can explore some of the world’s most pristine destinations in comfort and maximising viewing in these spectacular locations.

With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels and with floor-toceiling windows throughout, every light-filled space has been thoughtfully designed as a viewing platform.

No matter where you are on the ship, you’re as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth.

The adventurer will have the opportunity to snowshoe through the magnificent polar landscapes, kayak in still, icy inlets, or take a Zodiac to observe majestic wildlife in their natural habitats and take comfort in knowing that all the gear needed for your excursions is provided.

Some may prefer to hop on to one of two military grade, twelve-seater ice strengthened aluminium, ocean-going Special Operations Boats built for exploration.

Guests are shielded from wind and waves from a flat, stable surface inside the ship and glide into the water to leave on their excursion.

Also available and designed for professional use in the harshest of environments, Viking have a fleet of seventeen Zodiacs with fuel-efficient Yanmar Dtorque 111 engines reinforced throughout yet stable and comfortable for a day of exploration.

For those who want to be even closer to nature, Viking offer traditional tandem paddle kayaks which offer superb stability and a large, open cockpit for easy accessibility and are at home in the Arctic or Antarctica.

And the opportunity to view this truly spectacular region on Viking’s uniquely designed submarine which comfortably accommodates six guests and a pilot and offers an incomparable undersea experience in one of a kind.

The revolving seats plus nearly 270 degree spherical windows offer an undistorted view in all directions for every guest.

Viking Science and Sustainability head Dr Damon Stanwell-Smith, a marine scientist, with an

honour’s degree in Marine Biology is an expedition leader on expedition-cruise vessels in Antarctica.

“In my view, there is nowhere else on the planet that comes close to the feeling of going to polar regions,” he said.

“I personally have had the privilege of visiting many many places on earth but there is nowhere, but nowhere where you get the feeling when you arrive in complete wilderness. It is extraordinary.”

“The experience of engaging wildlife that has so little fear of humans, the feeling that you get with other humans when you are there. When you are in a city of millions you can feel very isolated, it is the complete opposite when you are in isolation, you feel very close to your fellow human. “

“So, it is both a human experience as well as one of engaging in the natural world. I would as-

sert that no one going would return unchanged.”

“For Viking Expeditions, we are very excited about the partnerships that we have. We’ve been delighted at the positivity that has come from the academic institutions we have approached. They’re in different countries but the common theme is that they are the world leaders in their specific disciplines.

“Through these partnerships Viking guests will have an unprecedented opportunity. It is the new way to explore. It is an expeditionary experience that is like no other. It is a new way in which the private sector can engage with academic institutions, and most importantly it will have a profound effect on our guests.”

Onboard the ship enjoy the stunning panoramic auditorium in the Aula, the world’s most advanced venue for learning at sea. Inspired by

the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded, the Aula will offer a dynamic venue for lectures and entertainment, with floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views.”

Adjacent to the Aula through sliding glass walls is the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area with comfortable couches and warming lava rock ‘firepits’ perfect for panoramic views of the surroundings.

Together the two spaces can be combined to create an unmatched indoor-outdoor al fresco experience for guests to be immersed in nature.

To find out more about this remarkable cruise and have the privilege of joining a Viking Cruise please visit www.viking.com or phone (AU) 138 747.

Can you picture yourself aboard the Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition ship, the Viking Octantis visiting Antarctica in 2025? It is a life changing experience. (Supplied Viking)

LEE MCCARTHY

The breathtaking vistas

Explore TV presenter, Trevor Cochrane, returned to the screen with Viking, Saturday, 1 February on Channel Nine showcasing the first of four episodes dedicated to Viking’s 13-day Antarctic Explorer voyage on board the award-winning ship, the Viking Octantis.

Throughout February, Cochrane ventures where few others have been, taking viewers on a journey of otherworldly wildlife and breathtaking vistas that will leave an indelible mark on viewers.

Cochrane uncovers a land of paradoxes: the world’s biggest desert and world’s largest ice sheet belonging to no nation, which lay virtually unexplored until 150 years ago.

Viking ANZ Managing Director Michelle Black said they were pleased to welcome Cochrane and his team back.

“We are honoured to have Trevor travel for the seventh time with Viking and present our Antarctic Explorer voyage. Trevor and his team have brought to life the absolute best this exciting itinerary has to offer,” she said.

In the first episode, Cochrane began his journey in vibrant Buenos Aires, where he toured the gastronomic district of Palermo Soho, sampling empanadas, steak and Argentinean ice cream. He visited lively Caminito in La Boca for more local delicacies and performances, including Tango, before finally embarking on the Viking Octantis in Ushuaia.

The second episode sees Cochrane sail the infamous Drake Passage before setting eyes on the “White Continent” for the first time.

“There’s a significant amount of mystique associated with Antarctica, the purity of the landscape, the natural wonders, the rugged terrain and arduous journey to get there—I’m not sure what was top of mind, but all weighed in on my thoughts of what to expect—but what I actually experienced blew my mind,” Explore TV Presenter, Trevor Cochrane said.

Episode two continues with Cochrane kayaking through Antarctic waters, navigating icebergs and learning about sea ice. His first shore landing explores a historic hut at Damoy Point built by the British Antarctic Survey in 1975 with Viking Polar Expedition Leader, David McGonigal.

In the third episode, Cochrane introduces viewers to the onboard The Science Lab, where Viking guests learn from and participate with scientists in primary research. Trevor visits an Adelie penguin colony in Brown Bluff and the shipwreck of the Guvernøren, a whaling boat that caught fire during a staff party in 1915 near Enterprise Island.

Episode four begins with a submarine dive to the Southern Ocean floor and a Special Operations Boat (SOB) ride alongside a pod of humpback whales feeding before concluding the series with a visit to Astrolabe Island to view seals and chinstrap penguins.

“We rode on the SOBs to where we could see whales and the guide idled the boat. Bubbles started rising around the boat, which seemed fas-

cinating and innocuous,” he said.

“But our experienced skipper knew. He gently reversed the boat to ten metres away and told Lawrence, Explore TV’s director of photography, to change to a wide lens. We were in the middle of a feeding pod of 40-tonne humpback whales swimming deep underneath us, blowing bubbles

in circles as they pushed krill upwards before bursting to the surface with mouths agape only a few metres from the boat.”

Tune into Explore TV on Channel Nine and 9NOW every Saturday for four weeks until 22 February at 4:30 pm AEDT, 5:30 pm AWST, for the chance to win a 13-day Antarctic Explorer voyage

for two people, departing 14 November. For further information on Viking Cruises please visit www.viking.com or call 138 747 (AU) or 0800 447 913 (NZ)

Entrants must be over the age of 18. Only one entry is permitted per valid email address. The promotion ends at 11:59 pm (AEDT) on 1 March.

Tune into Explore TV on Channel Nine and 9NOW Saturday to watch Trevor Cochrane explore Antarctica.

Viewers will be taken on a journey of otherworldly wildlife and breathtaking vistas as television presenter Trevor Cochrane travels aboard the Viking

Wash Explore TV presenter Trevor Cochrane, as he explores Antarctica on a Viking expedition.

LEE MCCARTHY

NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, DEC 2026; JAN-FEB 2027

From $19,195pp in Nordic Balcony From $23,195pp in Nordic Penthouse

ANTARCTICA & SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND

Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

19 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES

SET SAIL: FEB, NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, NOV 2026; MAR 2027

From $26,195pp in Nordic Balcony

From $39,195pp in Nordic Junior Suite

free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.

Toronto to Nuuk or vice versa

27 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: JUL, SEP 2025; 2026; JUN, SEP 2027

From $40,195pp in Nordic Balcony

From $56,195pp in Nordic Penthouse

New Expeditions Brochure

ICEBERG IN ANTARCTICA

Your itinerary

China’s Ancient Treasures, Luxury East Asia Voyage & Cherry Blossom Discovery.

23 Nights | 22 February 2026 | Prices fr $8,899pp

Witness China’s Terracotta Army and the Great Wall, cruise the highlights of the Philippines, Taiwan and Japan on Holland America Line’s Westerdam, and experience Mount Fuji in bloom.

Be swept away in China’s extraordinary ancient past during this all-encompassing trip. Follow in the footsteps of emperors in Beijing’s Forbidden City and Summer Palace, and see the Great Wall of China. Meet Xi’an’s 8,000 terracotta warriors, every one unique.

Fly to Hong Kong for a one-night stay before embarking Holland America Line’s elegant Westerdam. Be awed by Boracay’s powdery white-sand beaches before exploring vibrant Manila. From port in Keelung, discover Taipei, the bustling capital of Taiwan. Witness the tranquil beauty of Japan’s Ishigaki Island ahead of Osaka, home to sacred shrines and sushi dens. Disembarking in Tokyo for a two-night hotel stay, you’ll experience a full-day Mount Fuji tour.

In Xi’an, one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilisation, witness the astounding 8,000 life-sized sculptures of the Terracotta Army. Discovered by sheer chance in 1974 when a group of farmers were digging a well, the soldiers form part of the necropolis built for China’s ﬁrst emperor, Qin Shi Huang in 210 BC.

Your holiday includes

Full-Board Cruise

14 night full-board cruise on board Westerdam

Visiting: Hong Kong, Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Manila, Kaohsiung, Keelung, Ishigaki Island, Naha, Osaka, Yokohama

Fully Escorted Tours

Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square; Great Wall of China and Summer Palace; fast Train to Xi’an; Terracotta Warriors; complimentary tour of Mount Fuji including the Hakone

Holland America Line’s Westerdam is a superb ship for those looking for a leisurely pace of life at sea, yet with interesting activities, modern innovations, high-quality dining options, and contemporary entertainment venues.

Ropeway cable car; complimentary boat trip across Lake Ashi and complimentary high-speed bullet train to Tokyo

Hotel Stays

Five-star hotel stays in Beijing, Xi’an and Hong Kong

Four-star hotel stay in Tokyo

All Flights, Taxes and Transfers Overnight ﬂight

NEWS Council roasted over cups

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An environment group is pouring on the heat for crockery at the soon-to-reopen Springvale Community Hub’s cafe,

For two years, Greater Dandenong Environment Group (GDEG) has fought for hot drinks in crockery cups at the six-star sustainability-rated hub’s outlet.

It had taken issue with the previous cafe operator’s single-use, disposable cups.

Currently, the site’s owner Greater Dandenong Council is sifting through Expressions of Interests to choose the future cafe operator.

GDEG president Isabelle Nash says previous excuses didn’t wash, such as no dishwasher being on the premises or having just a single staff member.

“It’s not hard. The City of Monash serve hot drinks in crockery at the Clayton Community Centre not far from the Springvale Community Hub and they have only one staff member there”.

It would also be a step towards the council’s stated goal of being one of the most sustainable Australian cities by 2030, Nash argues.

“If they can’t even give visitors to a council building the opportunity to have coffee onsite, what hope do they have?”

Nash also challenged the council to “walk the talk” on its pledge for a “range of special sustainability conditions” on future leases at the cafe.

Springvale Community Hub cafe is ‘closed until further notice’. (Stewart Chambers: 454629)

Council chief executive Jacqui Weatherill said in the EOI process, the council was “not prescriptive in requiring specific sustainability measures”.

“Instead, applicants were asked to demonstrate how they would incorporate sustainability practices in the running of the businesses.”

Applicants were also asked for their environmental initiatives to support a “healthy, liveable and sustainable city”, as well as any social benefit initiatives such as workplace training and charitable deeds.

The selection process will also focus on “quality food and drink”, hours of operation and community education and training initiatives, Weatherill said.

She said the cafe is expected to re-open in the first half of 2025.

Manufacturers propose tax-cut revival

In a “back to basics” call, a South East peak group has proposed the halving of the company tax rate for Australian manufacturers ahead of the next Federal Budget.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) argues in its pre-Budget submission for a 15 per cent company tax rate –down from the current 30 per cent.

It claims this would address cost pressures and boost the sector’s competitiveness domestically and overseas.

“The need to bolster the Australian manufacturing sector has been repeatedly highlighted by industry commentators for decades,” SEMMA president Peter Angelico said.

“However, the current federal legislative framework does not adequately address this

sector’s critical challenges.”

SEMMA argues that a “universal tax advantage” is more efficient than selective grant programs. It reduces administrative overheads and promotes more equitable distribution of support.

In turn, there would be increased jobs and economic activity – that would ultimately deliver higher tax revenues.

SEMMA also proposes a Government restriction on manufacturing grants, directing them only to Australian-owned companies.

This ensures taxpayer money stays in the domestic economy and promotes national industry resilience, SEMMA argues.

The policies are said to “underpin” SEMMA’s soon-to-be-released Manufacturing Blueprint.

“This policy aligns with a “back-to-basics” economic plan, providing a clear, direct, and equitable approach to supporting Australian manufacturers,” Angelico said.

“It is imperative for the government to prioritize this initiative to secure the long-term health and competitiveness of our manufacturing base.”

SEMMA represents a region touted as Melbourne’s manufacturing heartland, including Greater Dandenong.

Half of Melbourne’s manufacturing jobs are in the South East.

SEMMA attacks $10K wage ‘band-aid’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A new $10,000 wage bonus to home-building apprentices has been slammed as a “band-aid” approach by a peak manufacturing body in the South East.

Last week, the Government announced a doubling of the wage incentive from 1 July to encourage more apprentices into the housing sector.

From July 1, eligible apprentices will receive $2,000 at six, 12, 24, 36 months, and at the completion of their apprenticeship.

A recent Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive Scheme had found cost of living pressures were a key factor in Australians not pursuing apprenticeships.

In response to the findings, the Government will also be raising the allowance paid to apprentices living away from home for the first time since 2003.

The changes are estimated to help about 1745 apprentices and trainees in the Bruce electorate.

“For too long apprentices have earnt far too little, all while being asked to pay for their own tools, safety gear and clothing,” Bruce MP Julian Hill said.

“The Government is serious about skilling Australians for the jobs of the future through initiatives like Fee Free TAFE and now the $10,000 incentive payment for apprentices in the housing sector.

“This will mean more bricklayers, plumbers and carpenters to deliver Labor’s bold goal of 1.2 million new homes by 2030.”

In response, South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) said the incentives would not solve the skills crisis or help meet the home-building quota.

“The government has ignored the supply chain with this band-aid approach,” chief executive Honi Walker said.

“If manufacturing doesn’t have the apprentices – the skilled people to produce the building componentry needed – like trusses, metal fixings and piping as well as windows and doors, how can we meet demand?

“We need a ‘whole-of-industry’ approach to solve this problem.”

The incentives would “do nothing” to encourage young people to take up apprenticeships, Walker said.

“Better pay for apprentices from the outset is what is needed as is a government willing to back their local manufacturers with our sovereign capability within our supply chain.”

Independent Tertiary Education Council Aus-

tralia also expressed concern.

It stated the incentives ignored skills gaps in other critical industries such as agriculture, health, aged care, vehicle repair, ICT, tourism, hospitality and the resources sector.

Union body ACTU welcomed the wage incentives.

“Unions hear from apprentices across Australia that the biggest barrier holding them back are low wages,” ACTU assistant secretary Liam O’Brien.

“Thousands of young Australians, especially in our outer suburbs and regions, make huge sacrifices to pursue an apprenticeship so they can get ahead.

“The $10,000 wage bonus will go a long way in easing their cost-of-living so they can build Australia’s future.”

Skills and Training Minister Andrew Giles said the strategic review showed apprentices were especially exposed to cost-of-living pressure.

“This cost-of-living measure should encourage aspiring housing construction tradies to take up the call and join this critical workforce.

“Apprentices are the lifeblood of so many Australian industries.

“The skills they develop are vital ingredients for us to capitalise on our Future Made in Australia plan and deliver the infrastructure to achieve net zero.”

Housing and Homelessness Minister Clare O’Neil said more homes were being built because of programs like Free TAFE and improved support for tradies.

“More tradies means more new homes, so supporting more apprentices in construction and housing is something we need to get right.”

Homebuyer spike in South East

There have been 5342 people in Melbourne’s South East - among more than 200,000 Australians who were able to purchase a home through an expanded Home Guarantee Scheme, according to the Federal Government.

The scheme (HGS), which allows eligible residents to purchase a home with as little as a 5 per cent deposit, also avoids the Lenders Mortgage Insurance, something that could cost thousands of dollars a year.

Bruce MP Julian Hill said that “many people in our community are finding it difficult to purchase their first home”.

“The State Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme is a lifeline for many young Australians who would otherwise not be able to get into the housing market.”

Administered by Housing Australia, the HGS includes three guarantees; the First Home Guarantee (FHBG), the Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee (RFHBG) and the Family Home Guarantee (FHG).

The first two carry the five per cent minimum deposit for the financial year of 2024 to 2025, with 35,000 places available through the FHBG.

The FHG extends only to single parents and eligible single legal guardians of at least one dependent, with the deposit being as low as two per cent, for the same financial period, and with 5000 places available.

Of the 200,000 Australians who were supported through the scheme, more than 140,000 accessed the support since the current Labor Government was elected and expanded eligibility criteria for the HGS.

“Making it easier for Australians to own a home through schemes like Help to Buy and the Home Guarantee Scheme is so important,” Hill said.

“At the same time, boosting housing supply and increasing our construction workforce so we have some more homes for the future is also integral.”

Housing Australia works with participating lenders to facilitate loans to eligible homebuyers who would meet the income eligibility thresholds, as well as other criteria and don’t have the 20 per cent deposit that is usually required for a home loan.

SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker says the manufacturing supply chain needs support for more new homes.

Back row: Judith, Isabelle and Dorothea. Front row: Pam, Peta and Gaye. (454629)

Preppies’ first day joy

By Sahar Foladi

Preppies attended their first day at school over the past week, ahead of many years of schooling and growing up to do.

Whether you’re an emotional parent, excited or proud, this week will be the a start of many milestones, learning and achievements to be unlocked.

Dandenong North Primary School and Sirius College in Keysborough opened their gates to the Preppies on Wednesday 29 January.

DNPS has a total of 94 Foundation students enrolled this year and Sirius College has 40.

“Who could ever say that watching a Foundation student start their first day is not heartwarming for any educator?” DNPS principal Paul Hilton says.

“As principal I am fortunate to have the opportunity each year to witness the newest members of our community beginning with enthusiasm and joy.

“It is always such an emotional time for our families as they entrust us with their children and the farewell at the door can be difficult for some.

“Our foundation staff spend many hours collating information about children and creating fun and engaging tasks that will give every student a great start to their educational journey.”

Haileybury preps take on their first day

Big smiles, excited chatter and a lot of little legs ran through the gates of Haileybury’s Newlands campus in Keysborough as 67 preps began their very first day of school on Wednesday 30 January.

The young students quickly settled into their new routine, exploring their classrooms, meeting teachers, and making new friends. For many, the school’s playground was an immediate highlight.

“I’m looking forward to playing in the big playground,” said Rhys.

Hugo Engele, Head of Haileybury Newlands, said “The start of every school year is exciting, and it’s a particularly exciting day for our Preps.”

“Seeing the smiles on the faces of the children as they walk through the gates on the first morning is always a special moment.”

The day began with ‘getting to know you’ activities and a guided tour of the Junior School, where students were introduced to playground and classroom rules. But for the Preps, the real excitement was in the new experiences awaiting them.

Alitheia arrived bright and early, “I can’t wait to meet my new teacher,” she said.

For Alice, the day was all about forming new friendships. “I can’t wait to make new friends,” she said.

Paul Dooley, Head of Junior School, acknowledged the first-day nerves but reassured families that excitement quickly took over.

“This is an important day, so there are always a few nerves—for the children and also their families! But those nerves soon disappear as the Preps walk into their classroom and see some friendly faces,” he said.

Twin Zoe and Giselle with mum Nga for their first day at Dandenong North Primary School. (456146)

Mum Rooma Choudhary and Ayansh in the Dandenong North Primary classroom. (456146) Mohid gets to work at Sirius College. (456221)

Dandenong North Primary prep student Giselle climbs into the start of her school career. (456146)

Dad Bhushan Jain and Savera at Dandenong North Primary School. (456146)

Prep twins Layan and Leena at Sirius College. (Gary Sissons: 456221)

Sirius College preps Lana and Esra. (456221)

Billie with her dad David Knights at Dandenong North Primary School. (456146)

Sirius College students Deema and Ilayan. (456221)

Dandenong North Primary’s Vishai and Aaryan Murti in their school uniform with their parents and little sister. (456146)

From left to right: Alice, Rhys and Alitheia on their first day at Prep at Haileybury. (Supplied)

New interns welcomed

By Violet Li

Dandenong Hospital and Casey Hospital have seen an influx of junior doctors embarking on a new journey since January this year.

More than 100 junior doctors joined Monash Health as interns in January. They started placements at Casey Hospital, Dandenong Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, Kingston Centre, and Moorabbin Hospital.

The interns will rotate through an array of units over five terms lasting 10 to 12 weeks each, including General Medicine, Mental Health, Emergency Medicine, Urology and Palliative Care. They will work as part of the inpatient multidisciplinary team supervised and supported by more senior medical staff.

Medical intern Dr Adam Baker has started a rotation in General Medicine at Dandenong Hospital. He has been responsible for looking after patients from their first day in the ward all the way through to either when they go home or get transferred.

“We manage patients’ medical issues, liaise with other teams and then try and take a very holistic approach to home care as well,” he said.

“It’s a lot of dealing with family, dealing with medical practice units in the community, dealing with places like nursing homes and aged care facilities and just making sure everybody’s on the same page about what the plan is.

“My main role is mostly to look after the patients and to act for these plans as well as support our teams in managing the patients.”

For Dr Baker, it was a career choice inspired by time spent volunteering at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre with his mother.

“I got to observe a lot of things and see what the day-to-day operations were like, but what re-

WHAT’S ON

Dandenong U3A

Dandenong U3A will begins a new year of sessions in February. U3A is a group with various activities for Seniors looking for entertainment of various types and friendship. At present we are running 33 sessions with the possibility of more to be offered as the year goes on. We use three different venues around Greater Dandenong

• Enquiries: Enquiry@dandenongu3a.org.au or 0494 018 356. Details: dandenongu3a.org.au

Dandenong Pop-Up Blood Donor Centre

Do you have time to give blood and change lives?

• until Friday 7 February at St Mary’s Community Centre, New Street, Dandenong. Details: Australian Red Cross, 13 14 95. Registrations required at https://www.lifeblood.com.au/donorcentre/vic/dandenong-pop-up-donor-centre Darts league

The Mountain Dart League is getting ready for the start of the new season. A general meeting will be held at 10-12 Elliott Road Dandenong South on 3 February. Team and player registration as well as trophies/vouchers to be handed out. Season starts Friday 7 February – new teams/players or anyone interested in darts are welcome to attend.

• Details: Joyce Grigg, 0401 526 744 Dandenong Evening VIEW Club

Our ﬁrst meeting of 2025 includes the AGM and guest speaker and author Peter Jerijian talking on his book Bouncing Back.

• Tuesday February 4, 7pm-9 pm at Dandenong RSL. Details: Rosemarie, 0430 443 065. Rethink Recycling Community Day

Bring along your clean plastic lids and see ﬁrsthand how the team turn waste into fun and functional items like skateboards and carabiners with the help of RUSTIE a Regenerative Up-cycling Solar-powered Trailer with Interactive Education.

• Saturday 8 February, 11am-2pm at 38 Aspen Circuit, Springvale. Whimsical weaving

As part of the Sustainable Saturday series, this two-hour workshop, will teach you how to make your own loom from items lying around your home before trying various weaving techniques and knotting styles. Create a beautiful, unique wall hanging to take home.

• Saturday 8 February, 11am-1pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Registrations required at eventbrite.com.au/e/whimsical-weaving-tickets1089271834379?aff=oddtdtcreator

ally stuck with me was the limited interactions I could have with patients, and I knew I wanted to do something where I could be more involved,” he recalled.

“From there, going through high school and going into university, I wanted something that would allow me to help pursue that a little bit more.

“It’s kind of just where I ended up. There’s a whole range of reasons why I think medicine is the best job in the world, or at least the best job in the world for me. A big plus is being able to be

Lunar New Year food tours

The Sensational Springvale tour will take participants beyond Springvale Road, through arcades and laneways, to expose them to cultural traditions, alternative medical practices, and food from across South East Asia. Book your seat at the table today as we celebrate the Year of the Snake.

• Friday 7 February and 14 February, 11am-1pm at Multicultural Place, Buckingham Avenue Springvale; $35pp including tastings and a meal. Registrations essential at drumticketing. greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/10362

Scraptastic cooking

Hear about how to make the absolute most of your weekly shop to not only reduce your food waste output but reduce your shopping bill too. Please note this is a presentation/demonstration (not a hands-on workshop).

• Saturday 8 February, 2pm-4pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Bookings essential at eventbrite. com.au/e/scraptastic-cooking-demonstrationtickets-1089263950799?aff=oddtdtcreator Springvale Urban Harvest

very privileged to be able to be in those positions to help others.”

Dr Baker said he expected to keep learning and develop his own abilities, and skill sets through the internship.

“Mostly I can continue to help my patients the best that I can,” he said.

“So far, I’m learning a lot. It’s been really good being able to interact with other senior members of the team. And they’ve been a big support for me as well so far, teaching me lots and lots.

Come along to swap excess homegrown produce and gardening extras and meet like-minded growers in the area. Supported by The Greater Dandenong Seed Library and the Springvale Community Hub Clothes Swap.

• – Second Saturday of the month (next 8 February) 1pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Clothes swap

Community members are invited to contribute up to 10 items of clothing, shoes and/or accessories. All items must be clean, in good condition and ready to display on the day.

• – Saturday 8 February, 1pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Details: Zoe, mohlz@icloud.com

Laps and lattes

Join us for a scenic walk around the beautiful Dandenong Wetlands with our Heart Foundation Walking Group. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just starting out, everyone is welcome to join in and enjoy the fresh air. At the end of each session, relax and unwind with a free hot beverage at Dandenong Stadium.

• Every Monday 10 February-3 March, 11am11.45am. Meet at Dandenong Stadium, 270 Stud Road, Dandenong North. Free event. Registration required at surveymonkey.com/ r/6N3FB83

9 by 5 exhibition

Artists from around Australia present their creativity on panels measuring nine inches by ﬁve inches in a wide variety of styles.

• Mondays-Fridays 10 February-5 May, 10am4pm (and select Saturdays 8 March, 22 March and 5 April, 10.30am-2.30pm) at Drum Theatre, corner Walker and Lonsdale streets, Dandenong. Free event.

Greater Dandenong Police forum

A Victoria Police panel will take questions from the audience about what issues are important in your community. Topics include crime trends, crime prevention, family violence, young people, road policing, drug-related crime.

• Thursday 27 February, 5.30pm-8.30pm at Springvale City Hall, 16 Grace Park Avenue Springvale. Registrations required at NHPGREATERDANDENONG-MGR@police.vic.gov.au

Azza Zein: Tashabok Exhibition

This immersive experience delves into the complex narratives of migration, and the invisible threads linking objects, bodies, personal narratives and labour. Through collaborative drawing

“I think that’s going to keep on going, and I’m really thankful to be a part of it.”

Medical intern Dr Michelle Xing shared many of the similar experiences as Dr Baker. She started her first rotation at Casey Hospital Emergency Department (ED), and by a pure stroke of luck, has commenced on the same rotation as two of her best friends from medical school.

She never imagined she would start her first week of being a doctor on a run of night duty, but it ended up really good for her.

“I felt really supported. I was working with a lovely supervising doctor,” she recalled.

“My nights end up being great. I was glad that I started on nights, so there was a bit of independence.”

The Monash University graduate did all three of her years of placements at Monash Health, which made her decide to come back.

“I wanted to go back because I really liked it there. I think they could sort of gauge that vibe from me that I really wanted to work there,” she said.

“The people are just so nice. All the senior staff, all the junior staff too, are just so supportive. You never feel like you’re asking a silly question or that you should be afraid to ask for help for anything.

“It’s just a really nice work culture. Everyone’s really supportive and gets along really well, and people always check up on each other.”

Dr Xing said it was very nice to be able to help people and also learn a lot on the job.

“You’re always learning. You never know everything,” she said.

“It’s nice to see a big range of presentations and patients and learn from your mistakes.”

sessions and conversations, Zein unveils the hidden journeys of displaced objects.

• until Friday 28 February (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays only), 12pm-4pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and, Robinson Street, Dandenong. Harmony Week forum

Join us for an inspiring conversation over morning tea. Our keynote speaker, Jana Favero, deputy CEO of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, will lead a dynamic Community Panel including Greater Dandenong Community Advocacy coordinator Peter Johnstone and Australian Federal Police community liaison ofﬁcer Anisa Sharif. Ticket registration closes 13 March.

• Thursday, 20 March, 9.20am-12pm at The Chamber Room, 1/39 Clow Street Dandenong; $35pp, Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network members and concession $25. Details: Executive@interfaithnetork.org.au

Neighbourhood Watch

Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch hosts its ﬁrst public forum for 2025 with guest speaker Sergeant Jerome Ithier from Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol.

• Wednesday 26 March 7pm at Paddy O`Doughue Centre, 18 Buckley St Noble Park. “WE” Women’s Empowerment Workshops

Developed for disadvantaged women in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Dandenong. The workshops are designed to enhance social cohesion and self-advocacy in a fun and supportive environment. Topics around personal welbeing such as ﬁtness, nutrition, ﬁnance, mindfulness, and creative art.

• Wednesdays 10.30am-12.30pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Free event. Details: Rachel, 0491 144 836 or rachelw@adec.org.au

Register at https://www.greaterdandenong.vic. gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/wewomens-empowerment-workshops Women Working Together Employment Support Program

A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the southeastern suburbs including Casey, Cardinia and Dandenong.

• Contact: 03 9655 2131, EmploymentSupport@cotavic.org.au

• Visit cotavic.org.au/our-programs/employment-support

Medical intern Dr Adam Baker has started a rotation in General Medicine at Dandenong Hospital.

A voice for refugees in need

By Ethan Benedicto

Fleeing from a war-torn country is an experience that no one should have to go through, yet, unfortunately, it remains one of the most-told stories from immigrants in Australia.

Mahdia Qasimi escaped from Afghanistan after the Taliban came to power in 2021, since then, she has been on a journey to advocate not just for Afghan girls’ education and human rights, but for all of those whose lives have been ravaged by war.

“My journey has been anything but ordinary, it’s been shaped by war, loss, resilience and hope,” Mahdia said.

“On the day the Taliban took over, my life as I knew it changed forever, I was banned not only from going to school but also from leaving the house.

“I wrote in my diary that it felt like the end of the world, the airport was closed and no one could leave the country, ‘am I going to stay home for the rest of my life?’.”

Having endured the change, Mahdia was one of 12 recipients of the 2024 Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Award, and now, she has nominated herself for the Saward Dawson Community Service and Social Impact Award with the hopes of taking her endeavours to another level.

Since she was young, Mahdia had a penchant for learning, what she described as a “curiosity about the world” and an appreciation for the smaller things in life.

Her father had left for Australia when she was just three, recalling that he had done so in a search for a “better future for our family”; however, it would be another 10 years before she would see him again.

After reuniting in Australia, a new set of challenges had taken root, the most integral at that time being that she couldn’t speak English, something that devastated her since she could

not express herself.

“Over the past three years however I refused to let those barriers hold me back, and I poured all my energy into learning,” she said.

“Once I started high school here, I became

part of the leadership team, first as SRC and then as house captain, since I was always looking for that chance to make a positive impact.”

Free from the fear of war and the shackles of oppression, Mahdia and her family were given

a fresh start, a clean slate that she quickly got to work on.

Starting in school, she has since been an active contributor to the YMCA Victorian Youth Parliament and also participated in the Holt Young Leader Initiative, experiences where she was able to hone her skills in leadership and also worked alongside other youth leaders.

Furthermore, she bode her time with the Victorian Student Representative Council and played a role in raising awareness on social issues; she worked as a youth Leader with Southeast Community Links in support of migrants and refugees adjusting to their new lives in Australia.

“I’m proud to say that I’ve achieved more than I had ever imagined,” she said.

“From excelling in my studies to becoming a youth leader and participating in community initiatives, I was able to embrace every opportunity that has come my way.

“I’ve delivered speeches on the challenges that refugees faced and drew on my own experiences to advocate for that change.”

For the new year, Mahdia’s ambitions remain great, with plans to start a business of which its profits will contribute to support refugees and migrants in need, alongside a library that will cater to helping with learning English and other resources to navigate their new environment and lives.

“I know the pain of being denied an education, and I want the world to understand the struggles Afghan girls face every day,” she said.

“My hope is to create a future where no girl feels silenced or forgotten, and I believe that by sharing my story on international and national platforms, I can shine a light on these challenges and refugees’ resilience.

“I want to amplify their voices, the girls who were denied the chance to dream, grow and thrive.”

ECGiswelcomingYears10-12studentstoour Dandenongcampuswithimprovedservicesto helpthemsucceedin2025andbeyond. JoinECGteamandmakeadifferenceinthe livesoftheseyounglearners,supporting throughtheireducationaljourney.

Full-time(Mon-Fri) Dandenongcampus ClosingThur27February

Full-time/Part-time Warragul,Pakenham,Leongatha andDandenongcampuses

(EOIsformultiplecampuses)

CCGiscommittedtoempoweringcommunities throughaccessibleeducation. We'reintroducingnewcoursesatourWarragul, Leongatha,PakenhamandDandenong campusesandinvitepassionateanddynamic individualstojoinourteamtodeliversectorspecificworkplacetrainingandassessment. Submityourexpressionofinterest.

Areaofstudies,notlimitedto: SchoolBasedEducationSupport LiteracyandNumeracySupport Horticulture Hospitality Campus:Warragul/Pakenham/ Leongatha/Dandenong

Mahdia Qasimi (right), holding her Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize in 2024 next to the Minister of Veterans, Natalie Suleyman (left). (Supplied)

SPORT Berwick claims DDCA T20

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick has claimed a second Dandenong District Cricket Association T20 tournament in three seasons after prevailing over Cranbourne by seven wickets in Sunday’s final at Shepley Oval.

The Bears set up the win in the first innings with an excellent bowling performance, highlighted by 7/16 for finger spinner Lachlan Brown, in which they restricted Cranbourne to 131.

With the pressure of a major chase extinguished, Berwick cruised to victory, with a Michael Wallace cut shot through backward point in the final over of the innings sealing the result.

Matthew Hague topscored in the chase with 41 and Jarryd Wills added an unbeaten 31 to steer their side home.

Earlier in the contest, Toby Wills’ excellent new-ball spell removed Cranbourne opener Harrison Carlyon in the first over and Anthony Galley in the fifth.

Brown picked up where Wills left off, and within three deliveries he had the dangerous Harsaroup Singh pinned in front.

He removed Ketan Bakshi in his next, before returning later in the innings to break a dangerous stand between Julius Sumerauer and Hayden Lamb.

After falling to 4/39, the pair had added 64 for the fifth wicket and were beginning to find their groove with a series of boundaries in the prevailing overs.

Sumerauer met Brown’s return to the bowling crease with a six on the first ball of the 16th over but held his nerve and had Lamb caught on the long straight boundary by Hague for 25 in a major turning point of the contest.

Marquee Ruwantha Kellapotha bowled Sumerauer for 48 to begin the 18th over as Cranbourne showed signs of desperation in a final thrust.

Brown, however, returned to bowl the final over and executed to near-perfection for his side.

Wickets on the first three balls gave him a hattrick, and a fourth of the over on the fifth ball wrapped up the innings without allowing a dangerous flourish from the tail.

It proved vital in the finish, as the heat, compounded with a long day in the field on Saturday, saw energy levels and intensity dip as the game worked its way to its conclusion late in the afternoon.

Needing little more than a run per ball from its 20 overs, Berwick was content to run hard between the wickets for much of the chase and punctuate its progress with an occasional boundary.

Cranbourne found success in bowling spin and taking pace off the ball, with Singh, Carlyon and Baskhi each taking one wicket each, but the Eagles simply did not have the required runs on the board to defend.

Berwick was the best team from start to finish in the tournament, finishing as the only side without a loss, the first to book its spot in the quarter-final round after winning its first two group

games, and defeating three Turf 1 sides in the preliminary rounds, in Buckley Ridges, Springvale South and Hallam Kalora Park.

The win came at a cost, however, with veteran batter Hancock suffering a hamstring injury late in the chase against Cranbourne, forced to retire hurt.

Hancock has battled soft tissue injuries on multiple occasions in the last 18 months and will be as crucial as any player in the Bears side to their contention for a Turf 1 premiership in the coming weeks.

James Trodd, meanwhile, sat out of the final citing discomfort in his achilles, with Kellapotha taking his place in the 11.

He was unable to complete the fourth over of his spell in the semi final.

The Bears crushed Hallam Kalora Park in the first semi final in the morning, with the bowling attack once more setting up a simple chase.

Having chosen to bowl, the Bears ripped through the explosive Hallam Kalora Park batting line up that was averaging 222 across its previous three T20 contests.

The wickets of Damith Perera, Jordan Ham-

mond, Matthew Calder and Mahela Udawatte for single figure scores gutted the Hawks who were reduced to 5/24 in the seventh over.

Veterans Matthew Cox and Leigh Booth were forced to pick up the pieces with a 31-run stand before Cox and Lauchlan Gregson added 36 for the seventh wicket.

Hallam Kalora Park reached 7/101 from its 20 overs, with Trodd and Elliot Mathews each taking two wickets.

It made an excellent start to its defence by removing Matthew Hague for a third-ball duck, but Berwick’s victory was never in doubt.

Jarryd Wills (37) and Jake Hancock (34) ensured there were no further causes for concern in the chase, however, reaching the target in the 17th over.

Next door on Wilson Oval, Cranbourne needed all 120 deliveries to reign in Dandenong West’s first innings total of 7/139.

A scurried leg bye run by Tim Fathers and Dean McDonnell put the finishing touches on a dramatic contest in which Cranbourne prevailed by a single wicket.

The contest was a seesawing affair, with the

Eagles vindicating their bold choice to bowl first with a handful of early wickets.

The Bulls fell to 4/24 at the end of the seventh over when Nathan Power was run out by Hayden Lamb and required rescueing from its leadership duo of Riley Siwes and Anthony Brannan.

They ran hard between the wickets and stemmed the bleeding with a 32-run stand before Brannan edged a catch to Lamb behind the stumps off Fathers.

Siweswasjoinedbythemanwhohassavedthe Bulls with the bat on multiple occasions throughout the tournament in Nuwan Kulasekara and the two began finding the boundary with more success than any of their previous teammates.

They added 82 in eight overs to close the innings, with some sensational striking that provided a target for their bowlers to defend.

Kulasekara finished with 45 from 23 balls and Siwes 46 from 42.

Cranbourne lost its openers in Carlyon and Singh within seven deliveries of one-another but steadied with a 54-run partnership from Bakshi and Galley for the third wicket.

That pair reached 2/75 before both departed with the score unchanged to the leg spin duo of Siwes and Shaun Weir.

When Siwes had Lamb caught by Weir at the end of the 11th over after a quick-fire 19, the game was alive.

Cranbourne was in a better position, needing 41 off the last 54 deliveries, but was beginning to run low on recognised batters.

When Siwes picked up his third, removing Sumerauer for just 10 early in the 13th, the Bulls edged ahead in the contest, and with Siwes consistently rotating his bowlers, there were few opportunities for the Cranbourne batters to establish a foothold.

Dandenong West grabbed a seventh wicket to end the 17th over and the eighth two balls later when Siwes threw down the stumps from cover to send Alex Hollingsworth on his way at 8/124.

McDonnell and Justin Dickinson took proceedings to the final over, which began with Cranbourne needing three runs, and the Bulls two wickets, with Kulasekara handed the ball.

Dickinson picked up a single on the first ball of the over but was run out on the third, having edged too far from the non-striker’s end while backing up and not returning in time after a McDonnell straight drive.

McDonnell attempted a ramp off the fourth ball but failed, leaving two runs required from the final two.

They ran a desperate single on the second-last ball and survived a near run-out from Venuk Hemachandra screaming in from point, and got the vital final run on a leg bye from the final delivery to advance to the final.

Anthony Galley’s 32 top scored for Cranbourne while Siwes finished with 3/23 and a run out to go with his 46 from the first innings in a tremendous all-round display.

Seneviratne handful fails to get Panthers across the line

By Marcus Uhe

A maiden five-wicket haul for legspinner Gehan

Seneviratne was the bright spark on an otherwise disappointing day for Dandenong in Victorian Premier Cricket against Ringwood.

Seneviratne bowled 24 overs and claimed 5/65, his first at senior level for the Panthers, who surrendered their position in the top four as a result of the loss, having failed to defend 174.

Ringwood’s strong top order in David King, Tom Rogers and Lachlan Bangs made short work of the target, reaching it two wickets down before lunch.

Ringwood reached 7/274 before shaking hands.

Victorian-contracted Rogers was the aggressor of the trio, striking at 93, with 53 off 57 deliveries.

King reached 75 from 167, and Bangs 49.

Seneviratne took the final five wickets to fall, showing great resilience with the contest already decided on first innings points.

He was late to be asked to bowl, with six players rolling their arm over for the Panthers ahead

of him.

Only James Nanopoulos and Matthew Wilson took wickets for Dandenong outside of Seneviratne, on a wicket that was said to be considerably better for batting than the previous week in which they posted 174.

Seneviratne and young legspinner Vishwa Ramkumar combined for 50 of the Panthers’ 82 overs.

There are two rounds remaining in the Premier Cricket season, with Dandenong fixture to face second-placed Richmond at Shepley Oval and 15th-placed Footscray away in the final two weeks.

They are not without a chance of reclaiming a spot in the top four and the all-important double chance, sitting just two points behind Camberwell, but Richmond will be a difficult assignment at home next week, having lost just one match this season.

They are tied for points with six-placed Casey South Melbourne, but the Swans have a major challenge in the last two rounds, with two topfour sides in St Kilda and Carlton on its docket.

Gehan Seneviratne grabbed five wickets for Dandenong in the Panthers’ loss to Ringwood. (Rob Carew: 201522)

Berwick has won its second DDCA T20 championship in three seasons. (Marcus Uhe: 457005)

Dandy rivals ready to roll

By Marcus Uhe

Both of Dandenong’s National Premier League (NPL) sides will begin their journeys this weekend in the quest to be crowned the best amateur club in Victoria.

Dandenong Thunder hosts Green Gully on Saturday night, while Dandenong City opens its season with a Croatian derby against St Albans at home on Sunday evening.

Let’s look at how both sides are shaping up.

DANDENONG CITY

INS: Yogoub Mustafa (Woolongong), Pierce Clark (Dandenong Thunder), Jamie Latham (Green Gully), Taylan Unal, Corey Sewell (Melbourne Knights).

OUTS: Stefan Brecevic (Melbourne Knights), John Hall (South Australia).

STAYING: George Lambadaridis, Brad Plant, Will Bower, Jackson Lino, Tim Atherinos, Kenny Athiu, Danny Kim, Jacob Alexander, Jack Webster, Damian Iaconis, Tom Giannakopoulos, Valli Cesnik.

It was a run of fairytales last season, but the challenge now is to prove it was no fluke.

Dandenong City made NPL history by qualifying for the finals on the back of receiving promotion from the second division in the previous season, the first occasion in the competition’s tenure to do so, in one of the sporting stories of the year at the grassroots level in Dandenong.

The rollercoaster ride included a 2-0 away win over champions, Oakleigh Cannons and a dramatic 2-1 defeat of minor premiers South Melbourne at Lakeside Stadium among countless electric moments from the talented and eager City squad, led expertly by Jack Webster at the heart of the defence and Nick Tolios from the sidelines.

But 2025 will present a new challenge; from being the hunters last season, there will now be a target placed in the centre of their backs every time they take the pitch.

The first item on Tolios’ agenda must be addressing his side’s ability to defend.

City was the only team to qualify for the finals that finished with a negative goal differential (-1), having conceded 51 at nearly two per game from its home-and-away season.

Of the teams above them, Avondale and Hume City were the next worse with 29, while South Melbourne, which finished two games clear at the top of the table, allowed just 20.

The average goals conceded among the top five was 25.4, meaning City needs to half its efforts from 2024 to contend.

There were few causes for concern at the other end of the pitch, as returning hero Kenny Athiu led a front line of dynamic and creative attacking options that buzzed and caused havoc for opposing defenders.

With 51 goals, City scored more than Hume City (fifth) and Heidelberg United (fourth), proving that the defence was indeed their achilles heel.

Tim Atherinos (seven goals), Damian Iaconis (seven), Will Bower (six), Brad Plant (four) and Tom Giannakopoulos (three) kept defenders on their toes while the class of George Lambadaridis

(six goals) was hard to ignore in the middle of the park.

The arrivals of forwards Yogoub Mustafa and Taylan Unal, both with A-League credentials alongside previous periods in the NPL, suggest City will double-down on its attacking approach, with experienced duo Corey Sewell and Jamie Latham to add stability in the middle of the park.

John Hall will be a critical loss with the gloves but former A-League and Dandenong Thunder gloveman Pierce Clark will fill the breach between the posts perfectly.

City will hope dashing defender Jacob Alexander, meanwhile, can stay on the park, having battled injuries and fitness in 2024.

Alexander was a crucial component of 2023’s success but the rapid development of Jackson Lino in his absence means City has options out wide at the back.

With Stefan Brecevic’s departure, those two will be expected to play key roles if City are to back up 2024’s heroics.

DANDENONG THUNDER

INS: Kyle Taylor (Exeter City), Hassan Jalloh (NPL veteran), Anthony Ianchello (Port Melbourne), Thijs Van Amerongen (international), Andrew Withers (Bentleigh Greens), Ben McCauley (Bentleigh Greens). Joaquin Fernandez, Daniel Clark (Queensland), Yuki Uchida (Northcote City), Kasper Hallam.

OUTS: Birkan Kirdar (Hume City), Pierce Clark (Dandenong City), Josh Karantz (Melbourne Knights).

STAYING: Jay Romanovski, Ben Djiba, Mersim Memeti, Sevdim Ismaili, Daniel Alessi, Lirim Elmazi, Muamet Selimovski, Ali Sulemani, Wade Dekker.

He may be beginning just his second season

at the helm at George Andrews Reserve but there is sure to be pressure on Thunder manager Adam Piddick to return the proud club back to the heights it desires.

Piddick did an amicable job under tough circumstances last season, appointed just weeks before the NPL season got underway and forced to cram an entire preseason of work into a fortnight.

With eight wins, four draws and 14 losses, Thunder finished 10th, a fifth consecutive season in the top flight of the NPL without finals action.

At times, Thunder played attacking decisive football that showed why Piddick has achieved success in previous coaching stints, and at others, they looked a side that was very much learning their new manager’s approach on the fly.

Only once did they string together consecutive wins–an unexpected double against rival, Dandenong City and champions, Oakleigh Cannons–with the ability to put the ball in the back of the net a constant struggle.

Embarrassing losses, including an 8-0 hammering at home to Avondale, and 4-0 to the relegated Moreland City, put a severe dent in their goal difference.

With just 29 goals for the season, no team scored less, and considering one came from goalkeeper Pierce Clark, the concerns up front are legitimate.

Second-leading scorer, Birkan Kirdar, has departed for fellow NPL club Hume City, with Clark heading to the other side of Dandenong to join City.

City’s success, in their first season back at the top level, only added salt to the wound for Thunder, forced to watch their local rivals stun the competition time after time on its extraordinary

run.

Experienced striker with overseas and NPL experience Hassan Jollah will bolster the attacking line alongside Wade Dekker, Ali Sulemani and burgeoning 18-year-old Jay Romanovski. They will be fed by former Premier League midfielder Kyle Taylor, who will form a new-look nucleus in the middle of the park with fellow recruits Yuki Uchida and Anthony Ianchello.

Stability at the back will be vital, with Mersim Memeti, Daniel Alessi and Muamet Selimovski all returning, with Dutch defender Thijs Van Amerongen.

Former Bentleigh Greens gloveman, Andrew Withers, is likely to get first crack between the sticks.

The Thunder have a brutal opening five weeks, with away trips to 2024 finalists Hume City and Heidelberg, plus a local derby with City.

A fast start to the new campaign will be crucial, and offer a forensic examination of the progress made during a long summer.

Dockerty Cup draw not overly kind to South East hopefuls

By Marcus Uhe

First round byes in the 2025 Dockerty Cup are both blessings and curses for a pair of local football sides when the competition begins in the coming weeks.

Noble Park and Endeavour Hills Fire will both watch first round action on the sidelines before tackling tough assignments in the second round against State League 1 North West clubs, Western Suburbs and Yarraville, respectively.

It will provide a fierce test for both sides early in their respective seasons, with the potential benefits arising from an upset sure to outweigh the downsides of an early exit.

The case is the opposite for South Springvale, hosting State League 4 North side in the second round.

The draw was conducted on Wednesday 29 January by Football Federation Victoria officials.

The first 28 teams drawn received a bye, with the remaining 104 teams drawn into 52 fixtures.

The schedule of the fixtures is yet to be finalised as of this publication.

Named after the Cup’s founder, Harry Dockerty, the Cup is a knock-out tournament between teams from differing levels of competition throughout Victoria–the state’s answer to the FA

Cup in England. Dandenong Thunder claimed the Cup back in 2012.

DOCKERTY CUP LOCAL FIXTURES (2025 State League) ROUND 1

• White Star Dandenong (3 South East) v Dooren United (5 North)

• Dandenong South (3 South East) v Monbulk Rangers (4 East)

• Mount Eliza (5 South) v Casey Panthers (5 South)

• Melbourne University (4 South) v Barton United (5 South)

• Moreland United (4 North) v Springvale City (4 South)

• Ballarat North United (Ballarat and District Soccer Association) v Lyndale United (4 South)

• FC Noble Hurricanes (4 South) v Ocean Grove (5 West)

• Greater Dandenong (3 South East) v East Kew (4 East)

• Sunbury United (3 North West) v Hampton Park United Sparrows (3 South East)

• Sandown Lions (4 South) v Brighton (5 South)

• Endeavour United (4 South) v Fawkner (4 North)

• Keysborough (5 South) v Heidelberg Stars (4 North)

• Byes: Endeavour Hills Fire (5 South), Noble Park (5 East) ROUND 2

• South Springvale (1 South East) v Keon Park (4 North)

• Bayside Argonauts (1 South East) v Noble Park United (2 South East)

• Yarraville (1 North West) v Endeavour Hills Fire (5 South)

• Noble Park (5 East) v Western

Victorian clubs are gearing up for the next edition of the Dockerty Cup. (File)

Dandenong City needs to improve at the back this season. (Supplied)

Dandenong Thunder is aiming to return to finals football in 2025. (Supplied)