Moves in harmony
Filipino dancers unfurled in traditional costume at a Harmony Day event at John Pandazopoulos Hall in Doveton on Friday 21 March. An array of seniors groups as well as schools across the South East celebrated with a world of foods and music.
(Ljubica Vrankovic: 461407) More pictures, turn to page 8
Crime crackdown
‘Tougher’ bail laws have passed State Parliament as crime soars in Greater Dandenong and across the state.
Greater Dandenong’s crime rate rose 11 per cent in 2024, headlined by car theft, shoplifting and stealing from vehicles, according to the latest official Crime Statistics Agency data.
There were more than 2900 thefts from cars in 12 months – up 20 per cent.
The most common thefts were number plates and power tools.
Meanwhile, police welcomed the Government’s stricter bail laws as children offending hit record levels across the state.
Remand will no longer be the last resort for juvenile bail applicants.
It has been identified as the fastest growing and most common crime across the state by Victoria Police.
“These laws are about squarely targeting the risks that come with young people committing serious and dangerous crimes while out on bail,”
Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said.
In Greater Dandenong, child offenders aged 10-17 were up 10 per cent and 18-24 year olds up 17 per cent.
The highest rise was in the 30-34 year old category (up 34 per cent).
Opposition MPs criticised the State Government for “delaying” a machete ban for six months.
“Dangerous weapons remain on shelves, putting Victorians at risk,” opposition police spokesperson David Southwick said.
More on the crime stats, go to page 3
On Friday, a Narre Warren 18-year-old man was charged with murder over the alleged fatal stabbing of a man at Marriott Waters shopping centre in Lyndhurst this month.
Red Roo pitches for home
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A Dandenong-based basketball powerhouse that has nurtured more than 30 players into US full scholarships is in desperate need for a new home.
Red Roo owner James Kerr says the talent-rich region needs a community-based high performance student athlete facility such as those in North America.
He wants to partner with Greater Dandenong Council, with his eye on a redeveloped Gloria Pyke Netball Centre and Springers Leisure Centre as possible sites.
“Gloria Pyke Netball Centre, in particular, could be so much more,” Kerr says.
“To date Red Roo Sports has sent 32 young men to school on full academic scholarships worth up to $AUD 80,000 a year.
“But too many young men and women in our
community are missing the opportunity who have the talent to become much more than this market currently affords.”
In the past decade, Red Roo has regularly won tournaments and had a “positive influence” with “zero” government funding.
Kerr and his coaches focus on preparing “impressive young men” for success on the court and at school.
“You can’t be successful without discipline. No one is going to be recruited if they’ve been in jail.
“I’ve lost thousands of dollars each year and I’m not complaining at all – because you’re changing lives in ways that blow me away.”
The club trains for two hours a week at 24/7 Hoops, which is a hive of activity for up to 200 basketballers and futsal-players after school and on weekends.
The purpose-built three-court facility allows players to book and train whenever they’re free.
But it is set to “disappear” when the $20,000-per-month lease expires in about 12 months.
“Give us a piece of land and we could go to the bank to build a multi-court facility.”
Gloria Pyke Netball Centre’s “potential expansion” is a high priority in the council’s 2023 Greaves Reserve masterplan.
It proposes nine new netball courts with lighting for regional competition at a cost of $5 million.
An outdoor basketball and multi-purpose court is proposed elsewhere at Greaves Reserve.
Gloria Pyke Netball Centre is managed by Dandenong Districts Netball Association, and Springers and Dandenong Stadium by South East Leisure.
Car flips in multi-vehicle freeway crash
A person was hospitalised after a car rolled over in a multi-vehicle collision on the Monash Freeway in Dandenong North.
With the car overturned in the middle lanes, four of the five inbound lanes were closed from about 12.20pm on Wednesday 19 March.
Ambulance Victoria transported one patient to hospital by road.
A ute and a truck carrying a digger appeared to be also involved in the crash.
Victoria Police said the cause was being investigated.
Greater Dandenong acting chief executive Sanjay Manivasagasivam said the council “continues to encourage Red Roo to engage with these organisations to enquire about court availability and hire”.
South-Eastern Metropolitan Liberal MP AnnMarie Hermans recently visited Red Roo training at Hoops 24/7.
She said Red Roo was about more than basketball. It was giving young people a “sense of purpose, discipline and opportunity”.
“Red Roo Sports has been a cornerstone of the Dandenong community, providing young people – many from refugee and minority backgrounds – with mentorship, life skills, and the opportunity to excel in sport.
“It’s vital that we find a way to support this program so it can continue changing lives for years to come.”
Man, 45, interviewed over alleged sex assault
A Springvale man has allegedly turned himself into police in relation to an alleged sexual assault in Dandenong last month.
Transit CIU detectives say a 37-year-old woman was sexually assaulted while travelling on a Route 811 bus between Dandenong railway station and Brighton about 6.30am on 17 February.
A 25-year-old man from Springvale handed himself into police on Friday 21 March. He was arrested and interviewed and is expected to be charged on summons at a later date.
A car that rolled-over on Monash Freeway in Dandenong North on 19 March. (Gary Sissons: 466805)
An ambulance and tow-truck on scene with the overturned car, a ute and truck involved in the collision. (466726)
A car that rolled-over on Monash Freeway in Dandenong North on 19 March, with a ute about to be towed away from the scene. (466805)
A truck involved in the incident. Its windscreen was smashed and the digger on the back nearly went through the cabin. (466805)
James Kerr and Liberal state MP Ann-Marie Hermans, rear centre, with Red Roo players at Hoops 24/7 this month. (Gary Sissons: 459823)
James Kerr and Ann-Marie Hermans chat with Red Roo players. (459823)
NEWS Car, plates thefts soar
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Car theft, shoplifting and stealing from vehicles headlined a soaring Greater Dandenong crime rate - up 11 per cent in 2024, according to the latest official Crime Statistics Agency data.
Stealing from vehicles was the chief offence, with more than 2900 in 12 months – up 20 per cent.
It has been identified as the fastest growing and most common crime across the state by Victoria Police. The most common thefts were number plates and power tools.
Recently, police declared Casey and Greater Dandenong as an “epicentre” for number plate thefts – and advised owners to install anti-theft number plate screws.
Also up were vehicle thefts, with criminals reportedly identifying a technological vulnerability in some cars. Children breaking into homes to steal cars was also a factor.
In Greater Dandenong, nearly 1200 vehicles were reported stolen in 2024 - up 27 per cent.
Police advise vulnerable car-owners to install an on-board diagnostic port lock toprevents an offender connecting a reprogramming device to vehicles.
Meanwhile, shoplifting rose 38 per cent, and number plate theft soared 32 per cent, with nearly 1500 reportedly stolen.
Also up were family violence order breaches (1625 offences, up 6 per cent), assaults (10 per cent), arson (48 per cent) and criminal damage (16 per cent).
Child offenders aged 10-17 were up 10 per cent and 18-24 year olds up 17 per cent. The highest rise was in the 30-34 year old category
(up 34 per cent).
Statewide, children offending was at record levels, according to Victoria Police.
“We completely understand the community concerns around young offenders breaking into homes, stealing cars, and putting other people at risk on our roads,” police deputy-commissioner Bob Hill said.
“Be assured that police are arresting the state’s worst young offenders again and again - youth gang members, child car thieves and underage burglars were arrested 3,400 times last year as part of Operation Alliance and Operation Trinity.”
Dep Comm Hill said police welcomed the State Government’s stronger bail laws.
Across Greater Dandenong’s suburbs, criminal offences were up in Dandenong (up 20 per cent), Keysborough (9 per cent) and Dandenong North (4.7 per cent).
While reported crime dropped in Springvale (down 0.4 per cent) and Noble Park (7 per cent).
Home aggravated burglaries were also down 6 per cent, but non-aggravated burgs up 32 per cent.
Teen charged with murder
A teenager from Narre Warren has been charged with murder over a fatal stabbing at Marriott Waters shopping centre in Lyndhurst this month.
Southern Metro Crime Reduction Team officers arrested the 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy in Doveton about 5.30pm on Friday 21 March. They were interviewed by Homicide Squad detectives and the man was charged with murder.
He was set to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Saturday 22 March.
The 17-year-old boy was released pending further enquiries.
Investigators say a group of males were seen fighting in the vicinity of Society Avenue about 8.30pm on 14 March.
Emergency services arrived to find a male with serious injuries consistent with a stabbing.
All other parties had fled the scene. Timothy Leek, a 24-year-old man from Clyde, was taken to hospital where he later died.
Police say the investigation is ongoing. Any footage or information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic. com.au
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Police at the alleged crime scene at Marriott Waters shopping centre on 14 March. (Gary Sissons: 465776)
Hundreds seek bills help
By Ava Cashmore
More than $500,000 in debt has been resolved at South East Community Links’ (SECL) ‘Bring Your Bills’ events in the past two years.
The good deeds continued at Springvale City Hall on Tuesday 18 March, bringing together 30 organisations, including banks, utility providers, telcos, legal services, and government agencies, to offer free financial advice and hardship assistance.
More than 300 people turned to financial experts for support with bills, fines, loans, and tenancy issues for free financial advice and hardship assistance.
“The response to our Bring Your Bills Day in Springvale was amazing... It’s clear local families really need this support right now, SECL chief executive Peter McNamara said.
“Everyone’s feeling the pinch from the rising cost of living.
“We’re seeing huge demand from people needing help with bills, fines, mortgages, loans, utilities, and tenancy problems.
“This pressure is even higher for multicultural communities who sometimes struggle to navigate phone and online systems. That’s why we always provide interpreters to support community mem-
bers in-language.”
The SECL initiative has helped over 2,600 people since its launch in 2023.
More than $511,000 in debt - including $60,000 on Tuesday - has been resolved through hardship arrangements, grants, concessions, and waivers, providing crucial relief to those struggling financially.
The most prominent issues were bill hardship (57 per cent) and fines (17 per cent).
SECL’s recent Cost of Living Survey revealed that 70 per cent of respondents struggled to afford food, 41 per cent went without meals, and 45 per cent resorted to short-term loans.
For many attendees, ‘Bring Your Bills’ was their first time seeking help, with 75 per cent never having approached service providers before.
Organisations at the event included City of Greater Dandenong, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, Consumer Affairs Victoria, Australian Government Services Australia, Red Energy, Lumo Energy, Optus, Victoria Police, ANZ Australia, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, Westpac, South East Water and AGL.
Interpreters and bi-lingual workers on site helped to cover Dari, Mandarin, Burmese, Pashto and Persian languages.
Splashdown for adult learn-to-swim program
By Sahar Foladi
A pilot water safety program, Safely Engaging with Water, has landed at Dandenong Oasis to support learner swimmers in the multicultural community.
The 10-week program aims to teach adults from all backgrounds in a collaboration between South East Leisure and Officer Sikh Temple Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Darbar.
At least 10 female beginners are part of the swimming lessons which runs every Saturday.
Dr Harpreet Kandra Singh, a senior lecturer at Federation University initiated the program together with the Sikh Temple where he also works as a volunteer.
“Our program tries to motivate people to understand swimming is a good exercise, it’s a therapy and that Australia has over 11,000 beaches for us to enjoy our holidays.
“We should enjoy the beaches - that’s when water safety comes into action.
“First generation migrants are so busy settling down that they don’t think leisure or sports are something they have time to spend on.
“We need grassroots organisations to work along with the established government agencies where we will see much bigger impact.”
Dr Kandra had experience of a near-drowning in his home country India which has had significant impact on how he interacts with water.
Since its inception, 70 people graduated the program in Cardinia, with a second round set to run in Casey in April.
Now its focus is on increasing participation rates in Dandenong from the current 10 participants.
Mr Singh is aiming for at least 50 to 100 participants in each council area.
Since the program kick-started in August last year, the Sikh Temple has raised $22,000 from community members, local businesses, and partners to partially subsidise the program.
Participants pay only $100 for the 10-week lessons, with the Sikh Temple and South East
Leisure subsidising the remaining $200 amount.
On the International Women Day, Saturday 8 March, Mr Singh dedicated the day to celebrate the efforts of the diverse female participants.
He has found women are much keener to learn to swim so they can better protect their families.
Mulgrave MP Eden Foster along with City of Greater Dandenong deputy mayor Sophie Tan also spoke with the participants on the day to encourage their learning.
Cr Tan said programs like this are proven to be vital for the diverse communities of Greater Dandenong.
“Water safety is essential, especially for our multicultural community where many people may not have had the chance to learn these vital skills before.
“Spending time at the beach, by the river, or at the pool is such a big part of Australian life and we want everyone to enjoy the water safely.
“This program does more than teach water
safety. It builds confidence and creates opportunities for people to connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment,” she said.
“By equipping adults with these important skills, we are not just keeping our community safe, we are empowering people to fully participate in water-based activities with confidence and peace of mind.”
People known to be of CALD backgrounds accounted for 21 fatal incidents, the highest on the record, according to the 2023-24 Drowning Report by Life Saving Victoria.
Last year three young Casey residents in their 20’s from Indian backgrounds and one 42-yearold who had travelled from India were tragically drowned during a family trip to Phillip Island.
So far the program hasn’t received any State or Federal government level funding according to Mr Singh.
To keep up to date about further developments in the program and information sessions you can follow Officer Gurdwara at facebook. com/sgndofficer/
Shops burn
Police are investigating a suspicious fire in Endeavour Hills in the early hours of Tuesday 18 March.
Emergency services including Fire Rescue Victoria responded to reports of two shops on fire at a shopping centre on Heatherton Road between 12.40am to 12.45am. No one was inside either of the premises at the time of the fire.
The fire caused significant damage to the two shops. A FRV spokesperson says firefighters assisted by CFA arrived within seven minutes to find a 15 x 15 metre structure involving two shops on fire. Crews, wearing breathing apparatus, worked swiftly to contain the fire and prevent it spreading to neighbouring premises.
A ladder platform appliance was also used in the firefight.
No injuries were reported.
A community advice was issued for a building fire and smoke in the area.
This incident was deemed Under Control at 1.34am. The council was notified and a building inspector requested to attend in the morning.
Any CCTV, dashcam footage or other information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
One
(Cam Lucadou-Wells: 466341)
Mulgrave MP Eden Foster, second right, and Dr Harpreet Kandra Singh, third right, speak with female swimming participants at Dandenong Oasis. (Supplied)
of the gutted shop outlets after a suspicious fire off Raymond McMahon Boulevard, Endeavour Hills.
South East Community Links team, front from left, Corinne, Deb, Rachna, Christina, Andrea and Adam, and back, Leith, Peter and Maher. (462185)
Adam from South East Community Links offers ready advice at the Springvale event. (Stewart Chambers: 462185)
Representatives from energy utility AGL were on hand to help with bill hardship. (462185)
Steph and Irene from the Victorian Ombudsman were among 30 organisations at Springvale. (462185)
Darknet drug pusher jailed
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
caught dealing drugs on the dark web in an undercover sting has been jailed.
Lucas Raymond Bingham, 43, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to commercial trafficking of LSD, trafficking cannabis products as well as possessing magic mushrooms, diazepam and ketamine.
Using the anonymous name ‘Utopia’, the selfemployed tattoo artist advertised to sell LSD tabs and cannabis derivatives on a darknet marketplace Abacus Market.
According to prosecutors, Utopia had made 1186 drug sales on Abacus totalling $163,198 between 2021-’23.
Transactions were paid in cryptocurrency, parcels labelled with false seller details and encrypted apps such as WIKR, Threema and Telegram used to avoid detection.
Utopia was believed to be actively selling on 25 further darknet marketplaces.
As part of his enterprise, Bingham mailed parcels into post boxes across the region including Cranbourne North, Berwick, Dandenong South, Carrum Downs and Frankston, to buyers across Australia.
Police intercepted 362 ‘Utopia’ parcels between November 2022-September 2023, seizing about 2.34 kilograms of cannabis, 552 THC infused cookies and 1870 LSD tabs.
In their covert sting in 2023, police made 10 purchases of LSD and cannabis products using $2616 of Bitcoin from Utopia on the Abacus site.
In a raid of Bingham’s home in October 2023, police seized a package from New York, USA
containing 3000 LSD tabs hidden in two comic books.
Also seized were bags of cannabis totalling 436 grams, more than 6500 LSD tabs, 302 THC cookies, 84 packets of THC gummies, 40 grams of butane honey oil as well as magic mushrooms, ketamine and diazepam.
Police also found $12,500 cash, three phones and a Isuzu ute, double-edged dagger and two shotgun shells.
In sentencing on 19 March, judge Justin Lewis said Bingham argued he’d set up the enterprise to fund his drug habit, after his tattoo business collapsed during Covid.
But the sophisticated online operation was “much more than that”, the judge noted.
Bingham had good rehabilitation prospects and limited criminal priors, Judge Lewis said.
He was jailed for four years and 10 months, with a non-parole period of at least two years, 10 months.
Sweet new beginnings
Council commits to go local
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Greater Dandenong Council says it’s “committed” to ensuring local manufacturers benefit from the $108 million Dandenong Wellbeing Centre (DWC) project.
Last week, advocacy group South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) pressed for the aquatic centre’s builder ADCO to use at least 90 per cent local content.
The quota is set for government large projects – as stated in the State Government’s Local Jobs First policy.
The council and the DWC’s builder ADCO have not revealed the project’s local procurement content quotas.
Greater Dandenong acting chief executive Sanjay Manivasagasivam said the council was “committed to procurement that supports local businesses and economic diversity”.
“This approach was embedded into the tender process for the (DWC) and saw dozens of local traders express their interest with ADCO to help deliver the project.
“We are continuing to work collaboratively with ADCO to see the local manufacturing sup-
ply chain benefit from this project.”
This month, Greater Dandenong voted to push local government bodies to back the state’s manufacturing industry.
This included calling on the Municipal Association of Victoria to advocate for stronger enforcement of the Local Jobs First policy.
“Victoria has long been the heartland of Australian manufacturing, yet without stronger support from the Victorian and Federal Governments, it risks losing businesses and jobs to other states offering more attractive incentives,” a council report argued.
SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker recently said SMEs could provide stairs, roof trusses, safety rails and treads, doors and a “myriad of unseen products”.
“Just about everyone in the local manufacturing supply chain can benefit from this project – if the local supply chain is engaged from the start.
“We have the capability, the experience and the capacity – it’s all here in the South East (which is) Australia’s largest manufacturing region.”
A naturally-lit atrium inside the Dandenong Wellbeing Centre. Greater Dandenong Council says it will ensure local manufacturers benefit from the $108m project. (City of Greater Dandenong)
A Cranbourne trafficker
Green staff boost at GDC
By Sahar Foladi
Greater Dandenong Council is set to increase its sustainability workforce to address its sluggish environmental reporting.
Since council adopted its 10-year Climate Emergency Strategy Action Plan in August 2020, it has failed to provide annual progress reports and to outline its key achievements .
Council has five sustainability staff members and is currently advertising for a sixth.
“We will be further increasing our sustainability/environment staffing numbers in the new financial year, with additional positions in the 2025/26 budget,” acting chief executive officer Sanjay Manivasagasivam said.
“There are also many other positions within the organisation that directly support our sustainability, climate change and environmental agenda. As well as addressing the challenges that climate change brings to Council, we are also actively engaging the community to support them in making changes to address climate change.”
He says the action plan is being reviewed and an update will be provided in coming months.
The community-based Greater Dandenong Environment Group suspects the lack of staff is the reason why there’s no reports submitted.
“This is one of the reasons why we’ve been advocating for council to put more resources into climate and sustainability because they don’t have the manpower to get to the reporting,” environment group president Isabelle Nash said. “They’re not acting like it’s a priority. They have declared a climate emergency, now act on it.
“We are hearing of other Councils that have between 10 to 20 staff in their climate and sus-
tainability teams now. We know the new council are looking to address the numbers of the team but it really needs to be quite large. Other councils have really grown those areas and City of Greater Dandenong is still behind.”
In 2020-’21 the council received $84,000 to help fund a full-time sustainability planning officer for three years to help implement its climate strategy. The role was made permanent after three years.
Nash says the group is optimistic that there will be improvements. But it’s a matter for council to “aim high” on staff numbers especially when “greater support” is needed due to its culturally diverse community.
She acknowledges other pressing issues in the community such as homelessness, cost of living crisis and rising bills. Those vulnerable people are on the “frontline” to deal with climate change impacts through the storms, heatwaves and flooding, she says.
“We want to see the resources for climate and sustainability to grow without detriment to other important issues.”
The group refer to the neighbouring City of Casey whom they believe has accelerated ahead in the past four years in this field.
According to Greater Dandenog council, it has made progress over the last five years such as reducing council’s emissions by 82 per cent, utilising only renewable electricity, installing over 600 kilowatts of solar panels on multiple council sites, transitioning nearly 30 fleet vehicles to low emissions vehicles, and replacing a number of small gas assets with electric units.
It has also planted 2000 trees each year since 2012, which has resulted in the municipal wide canopy coverage increasing from 9.9 per cent in 2016 to 14.1 per cent in 2023.
Kingswood anger overflows
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A development plan for 941 homes on the former Kingswood Golf Course and floodway has been slammed by a residents group as “beyond our worst nightmares”.
Unveiled publicly this month, developer Satterley’s plan is an 18 per cent increase on previous owner AustralianSuper’s controversial proposal for 800 lots.
It proposes a mix of detached homes and townhouses of two to three storeys, including townhouse lots as narrow as 4.5 metres.
The affordable housing offering was “voluntarily” lifted to 10 per cent – or 94 homes.
“Useable” open space comprises 20 per cent of the 49.5 hectares of “developable land” - not including water bodies and drainage works.
An aggrieved Save Kingswood Group presidentKevinPoulter-whorepresentsneighbours in Dingley Village - said Satterley had claimed it “only made developments in keeping with local character”.
“Little did we know that all the while they were planning the most grotesque high density.”
Residents already suffer “overloaded” services, no local police, high school or sports grounds, as well as long traffic delays, Poulter argues.
“Eight-hundred lots … did not fit with proper access and services, however Satterley went beyond our worst nightmares,” Poulter says.
“Despite enlarging the retarding dam, they have crammed into one of the most dense minuscule lots in Melbourne.”
Currently, without development, more than 80 homes downstream of the golf course are at risk of flooding in a 1-in-100 event.
In response, Satterley submitted a plan for an estimated 80-90 megalitres of storage to mitigate flooding.
This would be achieved by expanding the Melbourne Water retarding basin from 19 megalitres to 65 megalitres, and buliding two other retarding basins totalling about 24 megalitres.
not increase flooding risks for nearby areas,” MW service futures executive general manager Chris Brace said.
“We will continue collaborating with (Satterley) to ensure that their proposed drainage strategy meets Melbourne Water’s standards.”
Meanwhile, Poulter predicts “massive” flooding will occur, pointing to the history of nearby homes and roads already being inundated.
“The developers are wiping out an existing dam by building on it – how is that possible?” he says.
“(They are) also digging up hundreds of kilometres of drain pipes, destroying pumping stations, closing off the aquifer and no longer using the sprinklers… used to distribute and store water when a downpour was expected.
“We estimate up to half a billion litres has not been accounted for in a peak event.”
In recent weeks, Kingston Council – which has opposed the previous 800-unit plan – stated the proposal would increase Dingley Village’s population by 20-25 per cent.
It was concerned about the extra homes, the “very small size” of some blocks and little detail on community facilities, it stated.
AustralianSuper bought the site for a purported $125 million in 2014, divesting it to Satterley last year.
According to Satterley’s report, Melbourne Water requires the future estate to “not worsen and improve conditions” for downstream flood-effected areas.
Melbourne Water has yet to approve the submitted plans.
“Our team is carefully reviewing the submitted plans to ensure the development does
By Sahar Foladi
City of Greater Dandenong is one of 14 councils concerned about the costs to ratepayers from the mandatory roll-out of new purple-lid bins for glass recycling.
The State Government’s four-bin system is said to reduce contamination and make it easy to “sort materials” at home.
However, Greater Dandenong and other councils questioning the rollout in a collective open lettertotheenvironmentministerSteveDimopoulos.
Acting chief executive office Sanjay Manivasagasivam says the council is seeking additional information from the State Government to understand the costs and benefits.
Hesaystheexactcosttoratepayersisunknown, given it’s an “entirely new service.”
“While there is a current timeline in place to have the glass service rolled out, we will work towards that date. In the meantime, we are seeking additional information from the State Government.
“The glass service could be rolled out in a number of different ways including kerbside collections or drop off points throughout the municipality.”
All councils are mandated to rollout the bins by 1 July 2027, following the successful Victorian Container Deposit Scheme.
Greater Dandenong Environment Group president Isabelle Nash says if it helps to improve the recycling system then it is worth it.
“In the 1980’s we went through a couple of bin changes, learning on recycling, and we coped.
“Everyone learnt, we’re an intelligent society and we’re fairly capable to do that again.
“As long as the system does what it’s meant to do.”
Currently, the government is working with councils to help transition to the new system in-
Public submissions close on 17 April, with the Planning Minister’s decision expected in mid-2025. Flooding in the eastern section of Kingswood Golf Course. (Supplied)
The estate would include lower-priced townhouses for first home buyers and larger housing on smaller blocks for younger families with “immaculately landscaped open spaces”, chief executive Nigel Satterley said at the time.
Satterley was contacted for comment.
Purple pickle over bin costs
cluding providing funds and assisting with its planning and implementation.
For Greater Dandenong Council, the purple bin collection will be once every four weeks.
Dr Harpreet Kandra Singh works as a senior lecturer in Federation University, teaching courses on water management, environmental management and a research focus on circular economy.
Like many, he is also in favour of the container deposit scheme to be expanded to accommodate glass recycling rather than a fourth bin roll out.
“The problem is currently even though we have a container deposit scheme, there’s a lot of glass containers that is not covered by the scheme.
“The scheme has to upgrade and expand in terms of what it covers.
“The genesis of the policy is good - we do need purple bins but we also need to understand. Do we think we will have the knowledge and awareness that people are binning the correct items in the purple bin?”
Dr Singh says current waste segregation is not up to standard especially for multicultural communities in City of Greater Dandenong and City of Casey who lack in knowledge on these matters.
He says some diverse communities are already confused with the existing three bins, unaware that councils provide information on such issues.
“As of now they should focus more on better waste segregation rather than introducing a new bins system straight away.
“The government should have schools programs for awareness,. Children can play a big role in the waste management campaign to make people more aware.
“It will infiltrate in the families and the kids can pass on the knowledge to their families.”
Greater Dandenong Environment Group with their posters at a council meeting in March. (Supplied)
Murderer gets 22 years’ jail
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A severely-drunk man who fatally stabbed and bludgeoned his co-resident at a Endeavour Hills boarding home has been jailed up to 22 years.
Jamefil Wal, 40, had been drinking red wine on the night he “brutally murdered” his friend and neighbour in “shocking” circumstances, Supreme Court judge James Elliott said in sentencing on 18 March.
“By your vicious assault ... through multiple acts of aggression, you have brutally taken the life of a friend with the use of weapons.”
The two ‘friends’, neighbours and refugees were known to get loud when drinking together and would accuse each other of stealing from each other.
On the night of 25-26 February 2023, Wal variously armed himself with a timber picket and a hammer, yelled threats and repeatedly struck the victim’s door.
“Where’s my money? Give me my money, I kill you,” Wal allegedly said.
About 1.49am, the victim left his room.
Wal approached him and attacked him with a hammer to his stomach and head.
During a struggle, the victim fell to the floor with Wal on top of him.
While holding a hammer, Wal produced a knife and stabbed the victim four times to the chest, and then further to the head and body.
As the victim lay motionless, Wal struck him several more times with the hammer.
Justice Elliott noted several residents walked past the victim but didn’t check on him that morning.
Nearly eight hours after the attack, the home’s caretaker checked for signs of life and called emergency services.
Paramedics pronounced the then-40-year-old victim dead at the scene. An autopsy report stated that he’d died from multiple stab wounds.
Wal was arrested by police in his room.
Born in South Sudan, Wal had “survived the atrocities of a brutal civil war” as well as seven years in a refugee camp in Egypt, Justice Elliott noted.
Wal arrived in Australia as a young adult. He lacked family support, had no long-term employment, suffered a traumatic brain injury during an assault, abused alcohol and drugs and developed a 13-year criminal history of violence and drug offences.
A forensic psychiatrist stated Wal at the time of the murder was in an “actively psychotic state” and severely intoxicated.
Justice Elliott said Wal’s moral culpability was reduced due to his schizophrenia and major neurocognitive disorder as well as his mixed-substance use disorder from ongoing use of alcohol, cannabis and meth.
On the other hand, Wal’s rehabilitation prospects were “guarded”, particularly given his lack of insight into his disorders and his intent to continue excessive drinking in the future.
He was likely to be deported after his jail term, the judge noted.
Wal was jailed for 22 years, with a non-parole period of 16 years. His term includes 751 days in pre-sentence detention.
Expert warns on measles
A public health expert says the discovery of three measles cases in Melbourne’s south east highlights the need for people planning overseas travel to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
Acting director of the South East Public Health Unit and associate professor Simon Crouch said all three people had recently returned from Bali with the highly contagious infection, which can lead to uncommon but serious complications, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation (encephalitis).
“Measles outbreaks are currently occurring around the world and several Victorians have recently returned with the disease from Bali, Vietnam and Pakistan,” he said.
“The most simple step is to ensure you are vaccinated before you travel.”
The latest three cases visited multiple locations in Melbourne’s south-east before being diagnosed.
Anyone who develops symptoms of measles including fever, runny nose, red eyes, cough and rash is advised to seek medical care and testing.
Many people in Victoria are susceptible
to measles, including anyone unvaccinated, infants under 12 months of age, immunocompromised people and adults who were born between 1966 and 1992 who may not have received two MMR vaccines in childhood.
“Infants aged 6 to 11 months can receive a free dose of measles-containing vaccine if they are travelling overseas, which will give them important protection,” associate professor Crouch said.
“They will still require a further two doses of measles-containing vaccine at the routine ages of 12 and 18 months.”
People who are not vaccinated or unsure if they have had two doses of a measles vaccine in childhood are advised to discuss the free MMR (measles–mumps–rubella) vaccine with their doctor.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer recently urged people travelling overseas to seek advice from a doctor or a travel health professional at least six to eight weeks before leaving to determine which vaccinations are needed.
Details of these exposure sites can be found at: health.vic.gov.au/health-alerts/new-measles-case-in-victoria-4
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.
It also identifies services that are approved for Victorian Government funding.
Monash South East Public Health Unit is highlighting the need for people planning overseas travel to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. (Supplied)
Faiths unite in harmony
By Sahar Foladi
A room full of belonging, brimming with positivity and a sense of oneness summed up the celebration of Harmony Day hosted by the City of Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network.
Speaking of unity, speakers such as deputy chief executive officer of ASRC Jana Favero also addressed the looming period before the Federal election where politicians use agendas to divide the community.
She says generally Australia’s political leaders and media don’t embrace harmony “in any way” compared to Greater Dandenong’s welcoming community.
“Harmony means welcoming, belonging and you can’t really have harmony when there are certain groups and individuals in our community who are still being subjected to racism, discrimination and injustices.
“There’s a lot of compassion in the community but unfortunately fear and division is used for some political leaders and the media and they actually need to listen to the community more.”
She says complex issues where there are different opinions voiced in the community should be dealt with inclusivity, respect and unity.
The room full of orange balloons and tablecloths was crowded with community members, including key speakers Peter Johnstone, coordinator of community advocacy at the council, and Anisa Sharif, community liaison of the Australian Federal Police.
The event on Thursday 20 March also hosted Federal Police members as well as people of faith and Monash Interfaith Network.
Interfaith network executive officer Livia Carusi said interfaith networks are fundamental in leadership specifically when it comes to bringing people together.
“The way that we go about our service and the support to members is through a community development approach, which is about respect, dialogue and getting people actively involved to sustain the work that we do because it needs to be everlasting and meaningful.
“Our vision is really clear - many faiths, one people. Certainly this is emphasised through the leadership of our president, that if we start from shared values, we actually can reach peace.”
Network president Mehtap Williams said she hopes the network’s place-of-worship tours educates individuals to acknowledge their different
faiths but also their oneness in humanity.
The topic of the day was mainly to explore belonging and connection and Ms Favero opened up about where she belongs as a dual citizen of Australia and Italy with strong connections to Afghanistan and Pakistan.
She spent six months of her childhood between Afghanistan and Pakistan after her father who worked as a journalist was killed on his very last day in Afghanistan before he was set to reunite with his family waiting in Bali, Indonesia.
The documentary, ‘Frontline Afghanistan’ a tribute to Raffaele Favero was completed by his
wife who went back to the country with her three young children to complete her husband’s project.
“Even though I was only six years-old that really had a very long-lasting impact on my life.
“We were very blonde and fair as kids and we went to a refugee camp in Pakistan where children and families from Afghanistan had to flee into Pakistan.
“When we walked in, the first thing the kids did was they screamed at us and ran away.
“People explained to us the only other blondehaired people they’ve seen are the Russians who want to target them,” she shared.
“I was thinking about it because it really stayed with me forever and I really understood then that people intentionally harm other people just because of where they’re from and what they look like.”
Now 15 years at the ASRC, she is working to protect people seeking asylum and refuge and for humanity, something she cares for deeply.
The ASRC have put forward their priorities ahead of the Federal Budget, asking to redirect the billions of dollars spent in offshore detention centres in Papua New Guinea and Nauru to instead evacuate and resettle people in Australia and invest in faster processing times.
ASRC are seeking an increase in Australia’s humanitarian intake especially at a time when displacement is at an all-time high and to ensure all people seeking asylum have the right to work, study and access Medicare.
“We did consultation with people to inform our priorities and that’s how we came up with them.
“Because that’s our community telling us they want to be safe permanently and with their family.”
Harmony Day dances to the beat of many drums
Foods, costumes and music drummed in Harmony Day across the South East on Friday 21 March.
Seniors clubs at John Pandazopoulos Hall in Doveton, as well as students, parents and staff at schools across the region proudly paraded in national garments.
Among the dance acts at Doveton were Xin Jiang Chinese Group, Filipino Younger Generation Group, Sri Lankan Welfare Association, Mauritian Silver Edge and South Eastern Chinese Association.
Meanwhile, St Anthonys Primary School in Noble Park thundered with Taiko drumming.
A feast of delicious world cuisines was served in the Southern Cross Primary School quadrangle at Endeavour Hills.
“Students, teachers, and the parent community admire the beauty of traditional and special cultural outfits that reflect our rich heritage,” a school spokesperson said.
“The uplifting voices of our school choir amaze us as they sing songs of harmony and togetherness.
“We celebrate the strength of our diverse community because we all belong.”
A picture of unity at the Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network event. (Supplied)
Igor, 7, at Southern Cross Primary School. (461396)
Senior groups packed John Pandazopoulos Hall for Harmony Day. (461407)
St Anthony’s Primary students Dagmawi, Gawin, Patrick and Kaylee on the Taiko drums. (465511)
Braxton, 6, and Ivy, 7, in a Harmony Day dance at St Anthony’s Primary. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 465511)
Sarra, 7, leads a parade at St Anthony’s Primary. (465511)
Tawba 7, Maksym 10, Ananda 11, Ella 9, Mary Jean 9, Connor 8, and Carlen 9 at Southern Cross Primary School. (461396)
St Anthony’s students Ethan, 6, and Princess Grace, 7. (465511)
Tawba 7, Maksym 10, Ananda 11, Ella 9, Mary Jean 9, Connor 8, and Carlen 9 at Southern Cross Primary School. (461396)
Sri Lankan Welfare Association members. (461407)
He, Chong, Rong, Werli, Du Xing, Chiao, Kuan, Yunyan and Michelle in Chinese traditional costume at Doveton. (461407)
Embark on a global adventure
FOR the young at heart who finally have time on their hands to see the world, this is could be the cruise of a lifetime -at the very least one to seriously consider.
TheVikingWorldVoyageIIIwilljourneyaround the world in 170 days, visiting 41 countries with 82 guided tours and overnight stays in 18 cities.
Setting sail on Viking’s award-winning 930-guest ship, the Viking Sky from Fort Lauderdale on 22 December, 2026, the itinerary will include ports of call across six continents before its destination of Stockholm on 10 June, 2027.
Viking CEO and chairman Torstein Hagen said the company’s approach in everything they do has always been to focus on the destination, from their thoughtfully curated itineraries to their elegant small ships, which are designed to bring guests closer and enable exploration,”
“Extended voyages like our World Cruises allow curious travellers to experience dozens of destinations, iconic landmarks and rich cultures in one seamless journey, making them truly the adventures of a lifetime,” he said.
World Cruise guests can explore ports of call in Hawaii and journey through the isles of the South Pacific, including French Polynesia; traverse New Zealand and Australia; sail to iconic destinations throughout Asia; and travel up the western coast of Africa to Europe before concluding in either London or Stockholm.
A shorter, 153-day portion of the sailing, Viking World Voyage IV, departs from Los Angeles on 8
January, 2027, and visits 37 countries with 18 overnight ports of call before ending in Stockholm.
Guests may also choose the 142-day Viking World Cruise 2026-2027 itinerary from Fort Lauderdale to London visiting 31 countries, or the 125-day voyage, Viking World Discoveries, which departs from Los Angeles and visits 27 countries before ending in London.
The World Cruise itineraries include a visit to dozens of the world’s most iconic cities alongside lesser-known destinations in one continuous journey.
Overnight stays in iconic ports such as Zanzibar, Cape Town, Casablanca and many others allow guests to delve deeper. Viking will also visit Africa’s western coast, including Lagos in Nigeria, as well as Accra and Takoradi in Ghana.
While on board, Viking offers cultural enrichmentthroughonboardlecturesandentertainment such as the Viking Resident Historian program, which provides guests with a high-level historical and cultural education specific to their journey.
Guests can immerse themselves in the world’s rich cultures during included excursions that provide unmatched insight into daily life, as well as Privileged Access visits to cultural institutions.
Highlights of the new 2026-2027 Viking World Cruise itineraries include:
• Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hawaii - Nawiliwili is the gateway to the oldest and greenest of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai. The lush vegetation and wildflowers of this tropical paradise have earned it the nickname ‘The Garden Island’. To many,
this is the most authentic of the islands; town ordinances forbid buildings taller than coconut trees and the culture of ancient Hawaiians lives on in respect for the mana, or spiritual essence, of their land.
• Mombasa, Kenya - Kenya’s chief port and coastal gem, Mombasa, is a melting pot of traditions. Located on a coralline island and linked by a causeway to the African mainland, it boasts a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern and African cultures, having been a key Indian Ocean port since the 14th century.
• Agadir, Morocco - Situated on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir is the capital of Amazigh culture—the Indigenous peoples of North Africa. Historians believe the Amazigh migrated to Morocco from the Middle East and are descendants of the pre-Arab population. Today, there is a resurgence to promote greater recognition of the Amazigh ethnic identity, with images and music infused in modern culture.
• Phuket, Thailand - The Thai island of Phuket offers more than picturesque beaches and sweeping vistas of sparkling azure waters. The island was long a major stop on trade routes between India and China, often mentioned in ship logs of European sailors. Today, old Sino-Portuguese shop-houses and monuments to Buddha dot the island.
• Lisbon, Portugal - Lisbon has inspired explorers for centuries with its stunning setting at the Tagus River’s mouth. Its labyrinthine streets carry echoes of 16th-century navigators who sailed on the winds of the Age of Discovery. Savouring
local cuisine and port wine are favourite pastimes here. On any evening, the strains of fado spill from clubs in the historic Alfama District.
• London (Greenwich), England - Greenwich, a borough of London, is home to the Royal Observatory. From here, the world’s longitude is measured from the prime meridian, and Greenwich Mean Time sets the global time standard. At the port, the clipper ship Cutty Sark, one of Greenwich’s renowned historic landmarks, is preserved as a fascinating museum. Upriver, London is home to Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. In addition, this major economic and cultural hub boasts a long tradition of arts and architectural innovation—from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre to West End musicals.
• Stockholm, Sweden - Elegant Stockholm is nestled where Lake Malaren’s cobalt waters meet the Baltic. This stunning cultural capital extends over 14 islands linked by 57 graceful bridges. Hailed as one of the world’s cleanest cities, it boasts numerous green parks. The wellpreserved 13th-century Gamla Stan, or old town, boasts gabled merchant houses and an array of architectural styles, from the enormous baroque Stockholm Palace to the art nouveau Royal Dramatic Theatre.
• Strandvägen is one of Europe’s loveliest waterfront esplanades and the ideal place to sample some traditional smoked salmon.
If this sounds like a journey the perfect journey, visit www.viking.com or call (AU) 138 747.
Lisbon Portugal, enjoy the strains of fado spiling from clubs or enjoy an aperitif on the terrace.
Watch the world go by in perfect comfort from any of the loungers or relaxing settings onboard Viking as you cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Stockholm.
LEE MCCARTHY
Admire Caribbean sunsets
LEE MCCARTHY
FEW cruises tick all the boxes however Viking World Cruises do it brilliantly and whether travellers are seeking adventure, rest and relaxation, sumptuous food and beverages, time out in the spa, a chance to explore unspoilt destinations or all of these, Viking has it covered.
On offer is a magnificent voyage from Antarctica to inland waterways on a 69-day Longitudinal World Cruise VI in 2026 with the option to add pre and post cruise extensions.
Maximize the value of an overseas flight and enjoy additional days to explore the embarkation or disembarkation city or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities.
(Pre and Post Cruise Extensions vary)
Set sail on 24 February 2026 or 2 March 2027 on this epic journey to explore Antarctica, calling at remote outposts in the South Atlantic.
Admire Caribbean sunsets in The Bahamas, traverse the Panama Canal and witness majestic glaciers in Chile.
Enjoy more time to immerse yourself in the unique wildlife of the Galápagos or delve into the fascinating cultures of Peru and Rapa Nui, with optional overland excursions and extension programs that are sure to inspire.
Purpose-built for expeditions, Viking’s stateof-the-art ships provide superior handling, comfort and stability even in the roughest seas. A fleet of military pro zodiacs, Special Operations Boats, two-seater kayaks and two yellow submarines enhance guest’s experience.
Viking Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Michelle Black said the extended ocean voyages provided plenty of reason for travellers wishing to travel The Viking Way. Longer ocean voyages make travelling for longer periods accessible, offering a relaxing pace and allowing guests time to explore and enjoy the amenities Viking ships have to offer.
“Longer itineraries can vary, but the ones that offer real value generally have fewer port stops and more time at sea, making these types of journeys perfect for relaxing or providing the time needed to explore the amenities and activities of the ship before reaching their next destination,” she said.
“Many of our guests value the additional time they get on the ship to relax and enjoy themselves, so Viking focuses on onboard cultural enrichment programs, performances and Nordic wellness within the elegant surroundings of our ship’s serene Scandinavian spaces.”
“Our onboard offering includes a cultural enrichment program hosted by guest lecturers and Viking Resident Historians, Munch Moments and Nordic art collection, musical performances, theatre, cooking classes and sommelier-hosted wine tastings, a library curated by Heywood Hill and seven options for destination-focused dining. Our pools, Nordic spa sanctuary and stateof-the-art fitness centre offer the ultimate in on-
board relaxation.”
For the traveller looking for a cruise option, some ask what value is there in choosing a repositioning cruise ie fares; inclusions; multiple destinations to explore or time to chill and luxuriate?
The answer is this, the cost per day is less, so these itineraries are a more affordable way to experience Viking.
Viking All Inclusive offers guests the chance to step on board with nothing more to pay including
beer, wine and soft drink with lunch and dinner, with specialty teas, coffee, and filtered water offered all day. The Nordic spa and fitness centre is free for all guests to use. Wi-Fi, gratuities and all port charges are also included.
Some travellers value the additional time on the ship to relax so Viking onboard offerings are as important as its destination ports.
Pricing starts from $80,195 per person in a Nordic Balcony with included Business Class air-
fare and transfers. Plus US$4,000 shore excursion and US$2,000 shipboard credit per couple, free Visa service and Silver Spirits Beverage Package. Up to US$40,000 additional value per couple included. Offer ends 31 March 2025.(conditions apply)
Don’t waste time as this offer closes soon, visit www.viking.com or call (AU) 138 747 for further information.
Caminito is one of the most colourful streets in Buenos Aires.
Take in Bartolomé Island, a volcanic islet in the Galápagos Islands group during the 69-day Longitudinal Viking World Cruise VI leaving in 2026.
Visit the much-loved and bucket list location of Machu Picchu, site of ancient Inca ruins in Peru, in the Cordillera de Vilcabamba of the Andes Mountains during the Viking cruise.
The vibrant capital of New South Wales captivates with its iconic landmarks, stunning harbour and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Sydney Opera House stands as a symbol of architectural brilliance, and Sydney Harbour Bridge offers breathtaking views.
Discovery Princess® incorporates a sleek and sophisticated design with state-of-the-art amenities. With a diverse range of on board activities on offer, Discovery Princess® will captivate you along your journey to the many different destinations to which it sails.
15 Nights | 27 March 2026 | Prices fr $7,799pp
Embark on the ultimate Australian adventure, combining a Princess cruise of the Queensland coast with a three-night, all-inclusive journey on board the Indian Pacific.
Fly to Sydney for a one-night hotel stay before embarking on a 10-night Discovery Princess® cruise, uncovering the coastline of Queensland. Sail to the remote Willis Island, a speck in the coral sea, bask on the beaches of Port Douglas and, in Airlie Beach, explore the beautiful Whitsunday Islands before your ship returns to Sydney.
Here, you’ll disembark to enjoy an additional one-night hotel stay. Then, board the legendary Indian Pacific train for an all-inclusive, three-night transcontinental journey to Perth, traversing Australia’s dramatic landscapes as you savour fine cuisine and explore iconic Outback destinations during Off Train Experiences.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
10 night full-board cruise on board Discovery Princess®
Visiting: Sydney, Willis Island (scenic cruising), Port Douglas, Yorkeys Knob, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney
Upgrade to Princess Plus from $65pppd, including: MedallionNet® Max Wi-Fi, Crew appreciation, Plus Beverage Package, Unlimited juice bar, Premium desserts, Fitness classes, Two casual dining meals per guest, OceanNow® delivery, Room service delivery
Rail Journey
3 night all-inclusive Gold Service rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
Off Train Experiences and short stops in Adelaide, Cook, and Rawlinna
Hotel Stay
2 nights four-star hotel stay in Sydney at the Rydges World Square with breakfast
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
Sydney, Willis Island (scenic cruising), Port Douglas, Yorkeys Knob, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Nullarbor Plain, Perth
&
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From $5,395pp in Standard Stateroom
From $6,595pp in Veranda Stateroom
STRASBOURG,
GERMAN DANCERS
Car crashes into library
Dandenong Library patrons were given a “big shock” after a car reversed through the children’s-section window facing Thomas Street on Wednesday 19 March.
Emergency services responded about 9.51am after Triple Zero callers reported a car had collided with the building.
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) say that the scene was later declared under control and crews assisted with traffic management.
Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police were also called to the scene.
According to Victoria Police, no one was injured and an investigation is ongoing into the cause of the incident.
The library remained open and the damaged part of the building was isolated.
Greater Dandenong Council acting chief executive officer Sanjay Manivasagasivam said he is proud of the staff response to ensure public safety.
“Our priorities now are supporting our staff and patrons after a big shock and securing our building.
“On first appearance, the damage is to our glass walls and not structural. However, a thorough assessment is being undertaken.”
Noble Park RSL cheers 75 years of giving helping hands
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A social hub and a helping-hand for veterans, Noble Park RSL has gone from strength to strength for 75 years.
The sub-branch unveiled an anniversary plaque on Sunday 16 March with special guests including RSL Victoria president Dr Robert Webster OAM, federal Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus as well as about nine surviving life members.
In 1950, it all began with four World War II veterans – grocer John Pavitt, second-hand dealer Alfred O’Brien, insurance agent Maurie Bean and printer Archie Sotter.
They fundraised and built the club on its present site on Mons Parade. It hosted a bar, dance classes, youth club, wrestling and boxing.
“In those days, it was more about a place for a social get-together and camaraderie,” vicepresident Ray McCarthy said.
“There was a lot more veterans. Welfare wasn’t a big priority with the World War I and World War II blokes – they just got on with it.”
At the celebration this month, a placemat featured the club’s 27 life members that have
nurtured the institution.
A few members such as Joan Spencer OAM were there from the sub-branch’s early years.
Former commando Captain Donald Bergman OAM, 96, is another stalwart.
On permanent display are his wood carvings from Lone Pine-descendant timber, which depict monuments such as the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne.
The club – which now features a new bistro and welfare office - is one of the biggest strongholds of Vietnam veterans.
With nearly 600 members and non-veteran affiliates, the sub-branch is still flourishing.
“Our legacy is our welfare work,” McCarthy said.
“We’re one of the longest-serving welfare sub-branches – we used to look after World War II and Vietnam veterans, and now the younger veterans from Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts.
“There’s also a lot of veterans injured in the course of duty domestically.
“We also have a lot of members who aren’t veterans, but support the welfare fund for those who served.”
A century of history celebrated at Noble Park Public Hall
By Ava Cashmore
For over three decades, Dawn Vernon was a familiar face at the Noble Park Public Hall, teaching generations of dancers to pirouette, jump, leap and tap-dance at the beloved Dawn Lois Dance School.
Now, as the hall celebrates its 100th anniversary, former students are invited to gather to celebrate their time in dawn’s dance classes and the local community.
The Dawn Lois Dance School Reunion is on Saturday 5 April, at 10.30am in the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, inside the historic hall where so many memories were made.
Attendees will have the chance to reminisce, share old photos, and watch videos of past performances before joining the official centenary celebrations at 1pm.
Dawn, who is also well known for her longstanding leadership of the Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch, expressed her anticipation about reconnecting with former Noble Park dancers.
“I’m very excited for my reunion with the dancing school, I want to bring people back to Noble Park because so many people have moved away,” said Dawn.
Dawn has lived in Noble Park since she was just one year-old.
She turns 80 in October.
In fact, she even celebrated her 16th birthday at the Noble Park Public Hall before she began
her dance school.
“When I was only 18, my father said to me, ‘Why don’t you open a dance school in Noble Park?’
“ So I did and I had 100 students in my very first year.”
Dawn was the longest-term hiree of the Hall, using it for 36 years to run her business.
“I just love my community and the people,” she said.
Dawn’s advice for the community is to “get involved and you’ll never be lonely.”
For more than 30 years, Dawn has also been the president of the Noble Park Neighborhood Watch.
However, after her three decade-long stint she will retire from the role on 26 March.
Built by Ernest Wanke Builders in the early 20th century, the Noble Park Public Hall has hosted countless events, clubs, and performances.
The hall is owned by the residents of Noble Park, with five trustees overseeing its care.
The centenary celebrations, running from Wednesday, April 2nd, to Sunday, April 6th, will feature a History Board display, live performances from the One Voice Choir and the Ukrainian Choir.
For one of the trustees of the hall, Dawn Dickson, the celebration will be particularly special as both her grandfather and uncle were all trustees too.
“We’re quite excited,” said Dickson, “100 years is a long time for a building to be still standing and we expect a lot of people to come to the celebration.”
Dickson’s book “If only these walls could talk”, detailing the hall’s history, will be available on the day.
The official ceremony will be held at the hall on Saturday 5 April from 1 to 2 pm.
Dawn Vernon, with a history board of her former dance school, is looking forward to a reunion at Noble Park Public Hall’s centenary celebration. (Stewart Chambers: 464170)
Event organiser Ted Webster, RSL Victoria president Dr Robert Webster OAM, Noble Park president John Meehan, secretary John Archman, committee member Elizabeth Brown, treasurer Brian Dunn, vice-president Ray McCarthy and welfare officer Michael North mark the sub-branch’s 75 years. (Gary Sissons: 465105)
A glazier inspects the damage to the Dandenong Library’s childrens wing window. (Gary Sissons: 466809) A car crashed into Dandenong Library. Did the driver get Booked?
100 years ago
26 March 1925 NOBLE PARK
Word was received through Mr Bruce, Prime Minister, that owing to the insufficient number of letters posted and received at the local post office, there was not enough letters to warrant a postal delivery. Mr Frank Groves M.L.A. has consented to well and truly lay the foundation stone of the Noble Park Public Hall, and it is to be hoped that the committee will make the event fitting to the occasion and to this rising outer suburb.
50 years ago
27 March 1975
Stop here … in Jan.
Trains will be stopping at the new Yarraman Park station from January 1976. The contract for the job was signed last week by the
successful tenderer Accurate Consolidated Pty Ltd of Port Melbourne. The station is being built to Victorian Railways specifications and work has already begun. Agitation for the station has been going on for many years. It will provide access to the line for the thousands of residents in the rapidly-growing areas south of Noble Park.
20 years ago
28 March 2005
EastLink – the road ahead
Like it or not, work on the newly-named Eastlink project, one of the biggest civil-engineering projects in Australia since the Snowy Mountains Scheme, is starting. The State Government promises to finish Eastlink by 2008. It will be three years that change our lives. Tolls will be levied on freeway for 35 years. John Holland chairwoman Janet Holmes a Court said she
You’re Invited!
Cardinia Shire’s Night of Nights
Join us for the Cardinia Community Foundation & Rotary Club of Pakenham
Gala Dinner FUNDRAISER
Southside Racing Pakenham
420 Nar Nar Goon - Longwarry Road, Tynong
Entertainment and
Date: Saturday 5th April
RSVP by 22 March 2025
Bookings: TryBooking
An Evening of Fun, Networking & Fundraising
Enjoy a spectacular night filled with: Great company and networking opportunities
Entertainment to keep you dancing Delicious food and drinks
Exciting fundraising activities and auctions
Together, we’re making a difference! Funds raised will support local community groups and initiatives that strengthen our region and foster a brighter future for Cardinia Shire.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate, connect, and contribute to our amazing community.
Be part of the Cardinia Shire’s most anticipated event of the year!
Secure your tickets today – spots are limited!
does not believe Melburnians understand the extent of the project. To put it in perspective:
■ The freeway will be about 40 kilometres long
■ It will have 35 kilometres of bicycle and pedestrian paths
■ Connect East will spend $2.5m a day on the works
■ It will be a toll road for approximately 35 years
■ A total of 4.7 million trees shrubs and grasses will be planted
■ The road will have more than 90 bridges and nine pedestrian crossings.
5 years ago
24 March 2020
Covid-19 shutdown
A 500-strong police ‘coronavirus’ taskforce and a shut-down of “non-essential” services has been announced in a bid to “save lives” dur-
ing the Covid-19 pandemic. Premier Daniel Andrews said police would not hesitate to enforce fines of up to $20,000 for breaches. It was confirmed that police had found a number of travellers breaching isolation rules, as well as intervening in misbehaviour at supermarkets. The crackdown was necessary because “unacceptable” mass gatherings at nightclubs, pubs and bars across Melbourne would otherwise “cost lives.” In a dire warning, Mr Andrerws said if the Covid-19 virus “gets away from us”, there will be a situation in which there won’t be enough critical care beds, doctors, nurses and ventilators to keep people alive. The Stage 1 bans will be in place until 13 April – though it is “highly likely” that the shutdowns will widen and last beyond that date, Mr Andrews said.
INTERFAITH Finding unity in diversity
By Thurai Vinay, of Hindu faith
The quest for unity amidst religious diversity has been a noble pursuit throughout history.
At a time when divisions based on belief sys tems often overshadow shared human values, the lives of great visionaries remind us of the possibility—and necessity—of religious har mony.
Emperor Asoka, after the devastation of the Kalinga war, embraced Buddhism and dedicated himself to dharma, not as a means of enforcing a singular belief, but as a guiding principle of compassion, tolerance, and respect for all traditions.
His edicts, inscribed across the Indian subcontinent, urged people to honour and understand different faiths, laying an early foundation for interfaith dialogue.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a pioneer of religious and social reform in India, championed the idea that true spirituality transcends rigid dogma.
He drew upon the essence of Vedantic wisdom while advocating for an inclusive approach that respected all faiths, believing that religious truths could be harmonised for the betterment of society.
Mahatma Gandhi, deeply influenced by the Bhagavad Gita, the Bible, and the teachings of the Quran, saw religion as a unifying force rather than a divisive one.
His practice of satyagraha (truth-force) was rooted in the belief that love, and nonviolence were universal principles found in every great spiritual tradition.
For him, true religion was about service to
humanity, rising above sectarianism to embrace the oneness of all.
The Ramakrishna Mission offers a living example of interfaith unity in practice.
In its shrines, Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, and Sarada Devi are venerated alongside Jesus Christ and the Buddha—an inspiring testament to the belief that all spiritual paths lead to the same divine truth.
This profound inclusivity, championed by Ramakrishna himself, reinforces the idea that experiencing the divine is not limited to any single doctrine but is accessible through multiple traditions.
Today, as we navigate a world often divided by religious differences, these luminaries call upon us to seek common ground rather than conflict.
True unity is not about erasing differences but about recognizing the deeper spiritual bonds that connect us all.
By embracing an attitude of respect, dialogue, and shared service to humanity, we can move closer to realizing a world where diversity is not a barrier but a bridge to unity.
Noble Park Public Hall centenary celebrations run from 2-6 April, including a ceremony with a community choir, refreshments, history display and birthday cake on 5 April. (Stewart Chambers: 464170)
A look back at Noble Park Public Hall, with street-front shops. (Supplied)
WHAT’S ON
Ramadan Night Market
Festival of more than 50 food vans and food stalls, prizes, kids competition, activities as well as Harmony Square prayer each night. Organised by Bright Community.
• 25 March-2 April, 7pm-late at Thomas Street, Dandenong.
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 7.30pm (doors open 7pm) at Paddy O`Doughue Centre, 18 Buckley St Noble Park.
Twilight Multicultural Fair
Lighthouse Christian College Keysborough hosts entertainment, food trucks, jumping castle, animal farm, pony rides and rock-climbing wall. Families can bring a picnic to enjoy.
• Friday 28 March, 4.30pm-7.30pm at Lighthouse Christian College, 927 Springvale Road, Keysborough. Free entry, $15 for children’s all-access ride pass.
BBQs of the World
Explore the art of grilling from around the globe - such as USA, Argentina, South East Asia, Afghanistan, Germany and Philippines - and captivating world-dance performances. Part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (MFWF) special events program.
• Sunday 30 March, 10am-3pm at Dandenong Market, Clow Street and Cleeland Street, Dandenong. Free entry.
Nawruz Festival
Hosted by Victorian Afghan Associations Network.
• Sunday 6 April, 12pm-7pm at Dandenong Park, 174 Lonsdale Street. Free entry.
Fire station open day
Check out firetrucks including our new community-funded ultra light tanker, as well as firefighting gear, kids activities, BBQ on this fun, familyfriendly day.
• Saturday, 29 March 10am-2pm at Keysborough fire station, Chapel Road, Keysborough.
Chand Raat Eid Event
Join the community for a fun family event ahead of Eid marking the end of the fasting month. A variety of traditional dresses, jewellery stalls, delicious food, kids face painting, henna and much more available.
• Saturday 29 March 5pm-12am at Gloria Pyke Netball Complex, Bennet Street Dandenong.
• Only $2 entry fee, kids under the age of 5 enter for free.
Noble Park Public Hall centenary
Celebrate 100 years of the residents-owned Noble Park Public Hall from 2-6 April. The official ceremony includes singing from One Voice Choir, a Ukrainian community choir and the cutting of a birthday cake.
• Ceremony at Noble Park Public Hall, Buckley Street on Saturday 5 April 1pm-2pm. Refreshments, including gourmet coffee, hot chocolate and Dingley CWA food, for sale from 102pm. History display is open Wednesday 2 April-Saturday 5 April 10am-4pm and Sunday 6 April 10am-12pm.
Dawn Lois Dancing School reunion
The Dawn Lois Dancing School is staging a reunion to coincide with Noble Park Public Hall’s centenary celebration. Morning tea available.
• Saturday 5 April from 10.30am at Paddy O’Donohue Centre, Buckley Street.
Discover Dandenong Creek Festival
Lots of fun, free activities for all ages and abilities including Welcome to Country, roving performers, craft activities, a plant giveaway, wildlife show and display, fishing activities, a free sausage sizzle and coffee. FReeZA Open mic for performers aged 12-25 (arrive from 10.30am to register).
• Thursday 10 April, 11am-2pm at Tirhatuan Park, 4 Kriegel Way, Dandenong North. Parking is via 114 Somerset Drive.
Multicultural Anxiety Support Group
Inclusive and confidential space for people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds who experience persistent anxiety. Regular meetings held online on Zoom, with friendly volunteers.
• First Monday of each month, 6pm-7.30pm. Free event, register at greaterdandenong.vic. gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/ multicultural-anxiety-support-group
Chai Time
Join us for a special afternoon of delicious connoisseur canapes, sweet treats, and premium tea, all while supporting Wellsprings for Women’s Emergency Relief Program.
• Saturday 3 May, 2pm-5pm at Kennedy Hall, Killester College, 433 Springvale Rd, Springvale. RSVP by Thursday, 17 April.
Homeschool Enrichment Class
This class is designed to provide additional learning experiences outside of the standard homeschooling curriculum, with a focus on specific subjects and skills.
• Tuesdays 11.30am-1pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5/session.
Citizenship Test Preparation
We will help you to improve your English and understand the questions and answers in the citizenship test.
• Thursdays 6.30pm-8.30pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $20/term.
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 until 5 May, 10am-4pm (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.
“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/ we-womens-empowerment-workshops
Conversation Corner
The Conversation Corner is a safe space to share stories and build new connections. Anyone is welcome to join, no bookings required, and newcomers are welcome anytime.
• Wednesdays 1pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive. Free event. All Abilities Garden
Become a part of the team that cultivates our brand new All Abilities Garden. You will plan, grow, and take care of the wonderful garden designed by members of the disability community for people of all abilities.
• Tuesdays 1pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive. Free event.
We Built This City
Come and see stories behind Greater Dandenong’s favourite heritage places through short videos, historic objects, photographs and oral histories from Council and local historical society collections.
• Wednesdays and Thursdays (excluding public holidays) until 18 May 2025 at Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Free event.
Sandown Probus
Are you retired or semi-retired and would like to stay engaged and connected with others? Come along and see if you would like to join Sandown Probus Club. Enjoy the opportunity to make new friends, expand your interests, participate in the variety of activities and hear guest speakers on a wide range of subjects.
• 2nd Monday of each month at Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park. Details: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/sandown or Marion, 0458 660 016.
Soccer registrations open
Expressions of interest open for new players across all age groups at Springvale City Soccer Club - Miniroos 7-12, Juniors 13-16, Boys and Girls Youth 17-23, as well as mens and womens’ thirds, reserves and seniors. Miniroos and juniors training powered by No Limits Aquila Academy. Details: springvalecitysc.com.au/
LOCALPLUMBER
Dearlylovedwifeof RoyKeast(Dec). Lovedandremembered everydayforher kindness,generosity, compassionand thoughtfulnessalong withherdedicationand commitmentto hercommunity.
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Aliving,lastingmemory Ourgratefulhearts dotreasure.
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Bucks’ back-to-back flags
By Blair Burns
Back-to-back has a nice ring to it for Buckley Ridges after the powerhouse club tasted the ultimate success for a second consecutive year, defeating Hallam Kalora Park to be crowned premiers of the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf 1 competition.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl at Arch Brown Rec Reserve, the Bucks couldn’t have started the game any better thanks to a special opening spell from fast bowler Prav Chahal.
The English import took the crucial early wickets of Ben Hillard (1), Leigh Booth (1) and Damith Perera (4), all in his first two overs leaving the Hawks in some serious trouble at 3-9.
Mahela Udawatte had to be the man for Hallam Kalora Park, and he delivered one more time stabilising the innings and single-handedly dragging his side back into the contest.
The former Sri Lankan cricketer built his innings nicely and began to find the boundary frequently making it look easy out in the middle.
Jagveer Hayer has been in some impressive form during the back half of the season but it didn’t come easy this time as he battled against the bowling of Chahal and Ishan Jayarathna, struggling to get going.
The Hawks were in a spot of bother at 4-41 when Hayer (7 off 51 balls) hit Jayarathna a return catch and was on his way.
Udawatte was joined by his skipper Jordan Hammond who provided some resistance and
found the boundary, but was soon knocked over by Michael Davies for 13.
Young Austin Fardell hadn’t dominated this season but provided a crucial knock for the Hawks when his side needed him the most hitting 40 – his second highest score of the season behind his 68 in Round 1 (also against Buckley Ridges).
Udawatte (69) and Fardell (40) put on a 68-run partnership to give Hallam Kalora Park a chance
Parkmore promoted to Turf 1
By Blair Burns
Parkmore Pirates are the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf 2 premiers after they chased a target of 170 with six wickets in hand thanks to a huge partnership which helped them to achieve premiership success.
Due to rain last weekend, the grand final was set across two weekends as the side’s battled it out under the Saturday sun at Thomas Carroll Reserve.
In a bid to strengthen and extend the batting order, Parkmore Pirates’ captain Niranjen Kumar opted to bring Johann Brohier up to face the new ball so that Satheesh Fernandu could slide down the order.
However, Kumar began questioning his plan when the Cobras struck early through Triyan De Silva as he sent Brohier back to the sheds for a golden duck; it was 1-0 and Ammar Bajwa strolled to the crease.
After turning the game on its head the previous week taking the prized wicket of Mackenzie Gardner, before ripping through the rest of the order, Bajwa was full of confidence.
A few overs went by as Bajwa kept most of the strike with the dangerous Kyle Gwynne limited to mainly dot balls as the superb opening spell continued.
Josh Tonna was struggling to rotate the strike and so was Bajwa as the opening bowlers took hold of the game, with the Pirates scoring just seven runs off the 40 balls since Gwynne departed – the scoreboard reading 2-26 off 13 overs.
Something had to give, and it did as Bajwa took on a lofted cover drive and Ethan French dived forward to take a great catch, handing his
big fast bowler Ryan Patterson his first wicket.
Hewafonsekage Fonseka was the next man to the crease and his first ball was an accurate representation of his entire innings, as he played and missed off Patterson.
Only a few overs later Fonseka tried to pinch a single off Harry Funnell but a spectacular diving underarm throw from De Silva had caught him short of his ground, gone for 7 off 29 balls and the team had fallen to 4-39.
From here, Tonna produced an innings for the ages as he kept his head and despite the pressure building, Fernandu began to release it from the other end.
The pair complemented each other exceptionally with Tonna scoring some boundaries off his lethal cut shot, while Fernandu put the bowlers over the fence on the leg side.
As they neared closer, the HSD players and fans became quieter and quieter with the hope slowly fading in their supportive cheers.
With only six runs to get, Fernandu advanced down the pitch and smacked Brett Hookey down the ground for the match-winning six, taking his score to 74 not out, while Tonna finished on 65 not out.
After being in a hole at 4-39, the pair’s premiership-winning partnership of 132 saw the Parkmore Pirates bring home their second Turf 2 flag in four seasons, once again getting the better of HSD at the final hurdle.
Bajwa was rewarded for his incredible performance with the ball earning MVP honours with 6-44 off 26.4 overs and also scored 17 with the bat.
In a matter of hours, Parkmore had gone from being in some real trouble to being premiers as they hit the winning runs in the 60th over.
the following day and get their final score to 183.
Chahal was a wrecking ball and came back on late to get another two wickets, finishing with exceptional figures of 5-19 off 15.4 overs.
With time still left to play on Saturday, Buckley Ridges had to go in to bat and survive 10 overs late in the day but it wasn’t without loss.
Buckley Ridges opened with captain Jayson Hobbs and Jake Cronin as they tried to navigate the difficult conditions.
Hobbs was 1 off 20 balls and leaving everything he could when some good captaincy from Hammond saw a fourth slip added to leave a gap at cover, trying to tempt Hobbs into playing a shot.
The skipper took the bait and snicked off to wicketkeeper Perera the following ball.
Night watchman Westley Nicholas was also gone soon after for 1 but the Bucks held firm to stay get to stumps with the score sitting at 2-24.
Losing their next few batters on Sunday morning would’ve made the Buckley Ridges fans nervous as Troy Aust (24), Ben Wright (11) and Roshane Silva (10) all failed to go on with their starts. It was down to Dale Tormey and Jayarathna to see their side to premiership glory and they held their nerve to bring it home.
They withstood the challenges thrown at them by Hallam and managed to continue to score to guide their side home with a 78-run partnership under the warm sun.
While the belief of one more wicket continued to give the Hawks hope, Buckley Ridges’ pair Tormey (41 not out) and Jayarathna (45 not out) made sure they were there at the end.
The Bucks finished at 6-184 off 49.3 overs capping off a stellar season where they defeated Hallam Kalora Park four times and ticked off their back-to-back quest winning another Turf 1 flag.
Chahal was awarded the Fleming Medal as the best player from the match with his five-wicket haul setting up the victory for Buckley Ridges.
Silverton snap 35-year drought in emphatic style
By Dylan Beaumont
35 years in the making.
Silverton Cricket Club has broken through for a drought-breaking 1st XI title with a commanding victory against Keysborough.
The Knights were tasked with a chase of 207 on Saturday afternoon, before being halted by the bowling prowess of McDonald Medalist Harkanwal Singh and Dylan Hayes.
Keysborough’s opening partnership lasted only fleetingly, with vice-captain Jackson O’Brien dismissed for one in the first over by Singh, who continued on his merry way, dismantling another five batsmen en route to a season best 6/42.
The victory means Keysborough will remain in Turf 3 for another season, following relegation from Turf 2 in the 2023/2024 season.
Opener Chanaka Kahandawala mustered 34 before being caught on the pads by Singh and tailender Hennadige Fernando scored a gallant 38, but Silverton’s bowling potency was too much for the Knights to handle.
Hayes stepped up in the big moments, with a three-wicket haul.
The seam bowler will miss all next season with travels to England, a considerable void for captain Rob North and his troops.
North secured his sixth championship on a personal level, closing out the year with a seasonal average of over 40 and a critical knock of 42 in the first innings to set up a standout victory.
The captain said he was “pretty overwhelmed” by achieving what other generations of Silverton Cricket Club couldn’t.
“To bring home Silverton one flag, the club, supporters and the people running the show, to the community, to the presidents and all that, to bring them a flag is so special because they work their butts off to keep the doors open,” he said.
North’s belief in his troops never wavered, mentioning how resolute his side has been to win since the earlier part in the season.
“The belief [to win] was halfway through the season, we were doing all the right things,” he said.
The 74-run win was capped off with another Singh wicket, cementing him as the best player across both innings on the biggest stage.
Silverton was quick to celebrate after its 74-run victory on Saturday afternoon. (Gary Sissons: 466724)
Parkmore Pirates were too strong for HSD as they were crowned Turf 2 premiers for the second time in four years. (Stewart Chambers: 466722)
Buckley Ridges went back-to-back in Turf 1 with Jayson Hobbs leading the side to another premiership.
(Gary Sissons: 466739)
Second spot for Thunder
By Justin Schwarze
Dandenong Thunder stormed into second place in the NPL table after defeating top-placed Avondale 2-1 at home on Saturday night.
Scoring was opened when a lovely one-two from Ben Djiba and Daniel Clark found Djiba streaking into the box.
Djiba used excellent physicality to hold off his defender, dribbling in deep and squaring the ball to Yuki Ushida, who turned and smashed the ball into the top of the net.
Just before halftime, the Avengers responded through a brilliant pass to a fantastic strike inside the box from Daniel Edwards that was steered past Dandenong keeper Jamie Young.
Edwards’ shot was the only attempt on target for Avondale in the entire half.
Thunder was in the same boat, with Ushida’s goal being the only accurate shot for Dandenong.
In the 79th minute, with the scores still locked at 1-1, the hosts earned themselves a corner.
The ball was sent in low and short, where Daniel Clark presented and flicked an odd attempt that curled through the defence and curved into the bottom corner.
The Dandenong crowd and Thunder players erupted with the delightful finish that gave the hosts the lead against a fierce opponent.
Dandenong defended very well for the final 15 minutes of the match, until they conceded a corner in the dying moments of the game.
The ball was sent in high, and even Avondale keeper Thomas Manos was down for the last opportunity to draw level.
It was Manos who got to the ball, but his shot was sent out by Thijs Van Amerongen and the follow up was deflected into the safe hands of Young.
When the referee blew his whistle for fulltime, scenes broke out at George Andrews Reserve as Thunder handed the Avengers their first loss of the season.
Ushida was on the scoresheet for the second week running and Dandenong was on the winners list for the fourth week in a row.
Thunder propelled itself into second on the ladder with five wins, one draw and one loss, just two points behind leaders Avondale.
The club faces another test in round 8, travelling to play third-placed Oakleigh in a matchup with league leading goalscorer Joe Guest.
Meanwhile, inconsistency continues to be a big issue for Dandenong City as it fell at home against Heidelberg United 0-2 on Saturday night.
After a 5-0 thrashing of Green Gully in round 5, City has failed to score in their following two games.
Panthers powered by energy
Shepley Oval is home to international cricket legends and stars across AFL and AFLW and now one its main inhabitants is helping to foster future talent by creating a different kind of light.
With the launch of a ‘first-of-its kind’ green energy power station at a community-based sports club, Dandenong Cricket Club will generate thousands of dollars in annual savings and income, which the club will use to give young girls the resources and coaching to help develop into elite players.
Located in the heart of Australia’s most culturally diverse municipality, Dandenong Cricket Club’s power station will help its young players follow in the footsteps of cricket and footy stars such as Peter Siddle, Cathryn Fitzpatrick, Belinda Clark, Sophie Molineux and Sam De Koning, among many others to play for Dandenong and its football club, the Southern Stingrays.
The power station is a collaboration between the club, Amber Electric, Wattle Powr, Greater Dandenong City Council, and Cricket for Climate, a national organisation that supports cricketers at all levels to lead on climate solutions.
“With a 56-kW solar PV system, 80 kWh of battery storage and Amber’s optimisation software, Dandenong Cricket Club will significantly reduce their energy bills while supporting the energy transition,” said Amber Electric CEO Dan Adams.
“Amber will automate the battery to charge from cheap renewables and discharge when prices are spiking, saving the club between $7,50010,000 per annum.”
Dandenong Cricket Club President Michael Findlay was also thrilled with the club’s new asset.
“This is such a fantastic initiative for both the club and community,” Findlay said.
“It’s a valuable source of revenue that lets us continue to build our girls’ program.
“The fact it’s creating more green energy and
helping improve the reliability of the electricity system is a huge bonus.”
A legend of Australian cricket also threw her support behind the project.
“Dandenong has done so much for the women’s game over many years, and is home to so many incredible players,” said former Australian Women’s Captain and cricketing legend Belinda Clark.
“It’s fantastic to see the club continuing to support girls’ who want to play whilst helping cut costs and create revenue through the clean energy transition.”
Cricket for Climate CEO Joanne Bowen said the project is part of a long-term strategy to help increase the financial and climate resilience of cricket clubs around the country.
“Cricket for Climate is working to protect cricket and transition more than 3,700 community clubs and major venues to be carbon-negative, water positive and zero waste,” said the CEO.
“Collaborative, community-based programs like this one with Dandenong show how clubs can reduce costs, create ongoing revenue streams and continue to benefit their community through clean electricity generation and storage.”
Joanne says their ambition doesn’t stop at community clubs.
“We’ve got big, bold energy projects as part of our game plan,” she explained.
“Cricket has one of the largest, most diverse, and most powerful fan bases across the worldharnessing the power of that community for the good of the planet is what we’re all about.”
The power station was launched at an event on Saturday 15 March featuring Belinda Clark, Australian Attorney-General and Member for Isaacs Mark Dreyfus KC, and Cricket for Climate CEO Joanne Bowen.
High 5’s all round as Noble Park falls from top spot
By David Nagel
Noble Park has been knocked from the top of the ladder in the Mountain Dart League Division 1 competition after a shock loss to Rebels on Friday night.
The 12-9 loss opened the door for High 5’s, who were doing just that after an 18-3 victory over Redbacks propelled it to the number-one ranking.
In other games this week, Bad Boys continue to hold down third place after a 13-5 win over Clayton Bowls, while Bulls Eyes had an important 12-9 win over V.I.P.
The fourth-placed Bulls Eyes were one game clear of V.I.P. heading into round six, but are now two games in fourth spot.
Black Bulls have jumped to the top in Division 2, while Redbacks have maintained their dominant advantage in Division 3 with a 14-7 win over Stingers.
DIVISION 1
• RESULTS: MDDA Bulls Eyes def V.I.P. 129, Rebels def Noble Park 12-9, High 5’s def Redbacks 18-3, Bad Boys def Clayton Bowls Club 13-5.
• LADDER: High 5’s 20, Noble Park 20, Bad Boys 16, MDDA Bulls Eyes 16, Rebels 12, V.I.P. 8, Redbacks 4, Clayton Bowls Club 4.
• HIGH SCORE: B Richardson (Noble Park) 177, S Beasy (Noble Park) 171.
• HIGH FINISH: T Tapara (Rebels) 137, S Price (Redbacks) 127).
• MOST WINS: T Peea (V.I.P.) 17.
• MOST TONS: Jamie Wolf (Bad Boys) 41.
• 180s: J Johnson (Bulls Eyes) 4, S Ballinger (Bad Boys) 3, J Pollock (Clayton Bowls Club) 3, T. Highland (High 5’s), G. Rondinella (Redbacks).
DIVISION 2
• RESULTS: Black Bulls def Bandits 11-10, Stingrays def The Night Trawlers 11-10, Spectrum def Clayton Bowls Club 17-4. Bye: Outcasts.
• LADDER: Black Bulls 16, Outcasts 16, Spectrum 12, Bandits 8, The Night Trawlers 8, Clayton Bowls Club 8, Stingrays 4.
• HIGH FINISH: Mark (Outcasts) 114, Rod (Clayton Bowls Club) 107, Kiwi (Black Bulls) 102.
(Supplied: 321684)
• MOST TONS: Paul (The Night Trawlers) 24, Shane (Black Bulls) 20.
• 180s: Shane (Black Bulls), Jack and Rod (Clayton Bowls Club), Brett and Tony (Stingrays), Jay (Spectrum).
DIVISION 3
• RESULTS: Madarras def Vales 17-4, Redbacks def Stingers 14-7, The Goodies def Clayton Bowls Club 11-10.
• LADDER: Redbacks 24, Madarras 12, The Goodies 12, Stingers 8, Vales 8, Clayton Bowls Club 8.
• HIGHEST SCORE: Steve (Stingers) 174, Dave Davies (Stingers) 144, Damien Hammond (Redbacks) 142.
• HIGHEST FINISH: Damien Hammond (Redbacks) 142, Michael S. (The Goodies) 100, Dave Davies (Stingers) 86.
• MOST SINGLE WINS: Damien Hammond (Redbacks) 17, Steve Clark (Madarras) 14, Jamie Pelegrino (Redbacks) 13.
• MOST TONS: Steve (Madarras) 26, Damien Hammond (Redbacks) 22, Michael Bignell (Madarras) 15.
• 180’s: Terry (Madarras) 2, Neil Phillips (Redbacks), Steve Evans (Stingers).
The great darts continued in round six of the Mountain Dart League.
From left; Sophie Reid, Belinda Clark, Mark Findlay, Mark Dreyfus, Joanne Bowen, Melinda Yim, Sophie Tan, Tom McIntosh and Megan Barnett-Smith at the launch of the Dandenong Cricket Club’s clean energy power station. (Gary Sissons: 465169)
Daniel Clark’s clever strike gave Dandenong Thunder the 2-1 win. (Supplied: 459720)
