Dandenong Star Journal - 28th June 2022

DANDENONG

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Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

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CALD advocate shares her passion

Sister calls for level playing field

Rays’ AFLW draft hopefuls in profile

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SPORT

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Pakula joins Minister exodus

40¢ Inc. GST

Celebrating diversity An Indonesian cultural performance, kids activities and Uighur food were among the highlights of the City of Greater Dandenong’s refugee week event on Friday, 24 June.

More on page 14

Members from SisterWorks put on a lively performance for Refugee Week at the Dandenong Library. 286636 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Move towards zero

By Jonty Ralphsmith A project that seeks to end street homelessness is coming to the City of Greater Dandenong.

Set to start in early July, The Functional Dandenong Zero project will approach the issue holistically, fostering collaboration between 15 different stakeholders, led by specialist homelessness organisation, Launch Housing.

The Functional Zero approach is an evidence-based method of ending street homelessness based on the principle that homelessness is not just a housing, public health or policy issue, but a complex problem that requires collaboration and accountability at a local level.

Launch Housing, in collaboration with City of Greater Dandenong, brings together the local service system to combine resources and deliver homes and a range of support to people in their community.

This local service system comes together

as a Service Coordination Team, which creates and maintains a list of every person in the community who is homeless to ensure no-one slips through the cracks.

Achieving Functional Zero homelessness indicates that there are more people exiting the homeless system into housing than there are people who are homeless in the area.

Reaching this point means people entering homelessness are likely to have a briefer, nonrecurring stint on the streets as the system will be able to support and accommodate them more effectively.

Homelessness is widely recognised as an issue in the municipality, with a 29 per cent increase in the area from 2011-16.

“I walked around Dandenong recently and I saw visible poverty first-hand,” said Launch Housing Manager George Hatvani.

It is quite stark, it’s depressing to see, so clearly the need (for improved service coordination) is there.”

The project follows an evidence-based blueprint that has had success worldwide and been implemented in the cities of Port Philip, Frankston and Stonnington.

There was a 27 per cent reduction in street homelessness in the former between February 2021 and February 2022.

“Our optimism for the effectiveness of the Functional Zero approach comes from our experience as an agency knowing what it takes to deliver a model that is persistent, evidencebased, person-centric, place-based practice,” Mr Hatvani said.

Meetings between council and the 14 other stakeholders involved will take place weekly with a focus on moving people into housing efficiently.

People enter a state of homelessness for different reasons and there is sometimes resistance to accepting help, but homeless people in areas where the program is running can be assured that workers will approach them with

respect and try to develop a relationship with them.

The worker will then try to ascertain their needs and provide assistance from across the services accordingly.

“The person will see someone looking out for them, and doing what they need to do so hopefully they will see housing and support, that’s what we intend,” Mr Hatvani said.

Real-time data is relied upon to measure the effectiveness of the project, with the most up-to-date publicly available data being that from the 2016 census and there is a belief that those numbers underestimate the true gravity of the issue.

A date has not been set to achieve Functional Zero street homelessness in Greater Dandenong and will be dependent on factors such as the by-name list – a record of people’s details who are homeless in the municipality.

Continued page 6

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Fine for fatal ‘failure’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A South-East road-tanker manufacturer has been convicted and fined $600,000 for its “evident disregard” for an apprentice who fatally suffocated at work in 2018.

Marshall Lethlean Industries Pty Ltd pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to failing to ensure the workplace was safe and without risk to health. In sentencing, Judge Douglas Trapnell said the victim was Xi Lei Wu, a 20-year-old father-to-be, who started his work placement at the Cranbourne West site just 10 days earlier.

He was “handballed” a job to clean out the inside of a tanker on the morning of 4 October 2018. However, at the time, the tanker’s compartment was very low in oxygen.

This was due to a defective welder and wire feeder being left inside the tanker by an apprentice from the day before. The wire feeder’s valve was ‘stuck’ open, leaking argon gas and depleting oxygen levels overnight. The next morning, Mr Wu entered the tanker but didn’t emerge when alerted for a ‘smoko’ break about 8.55am.

Half-an-hour later he was discovered unconscious in the tanker.

Despite workmates hoisting Mr Wu out with a crane and performing CPR, he died from asphyxiation at the scene.

The company – owned by multinational CIMC – had just moved from a factory in Dan-

denong to the $2.8 million new premises in Cranbourne West. A boiler-maker told WorkSafe investigators that the Dandenong facility had a swing arm to attach the wire feeder, ensuring the gas connections were outside the tank. There was also an extractor fan available to remove fumes. Neither of these measures were in place in Cranbourne West.

Judge Trapnell noted that there was no evidence that the welder and wire feeder were routinely inspected and serviced. Also, Marshall didn’t ensure workers switched off the argon gas mains when the welder was not in use, or that they returned the welder to its rightful place after use.

Any one of those three “reasonably practicable” precautions would have prevented the tragedy, Judge Trapnell said. Any of them were easily done at relatively low to no cost.

“That amounts to evident disregard by the company for the safety of Mr Wu and others at its workplace.”

The use of a welder and wire feeder in disrepair and in a patially-enclosed space posed an “obvious and foreseeable” risk of asphyxiation, Judge Trapnell said.

“In my opinion, a strong message needs to be sent to companies that place employees and others in highly dangerous situations. That they must do their utmost to ensure the safety of those persons.

“If they do not meet their obligations in this regard, then they should know they will be met with stern punishment.”

Judge Trapnell noted Marshall’s early plea, deep regret, lack of prior convictions, clean safety record and remedial steps since the incident. He accepted Marshall wasn’t aware of the faulty equipment at the time.

The judge acknowledged Mr Wu’s bereaved family and partner, commenting “how tragic the loss of your son and partner was in these circumstances”.

The fine couldn’t ameliorate their loss but hopefully it would bring them closure, he said.

WorkSafe acting health-and-safety executive director Adam Watson said the incident was an absolute tragedy that could have been avoided.

“The dangers of working in confined spaces are well known and there is no excuse for employers who fail to control the risks,” Mr Watson said.

“This incident highlights just how important simple measures such as maintenance and storage procedures are to keeping workers and workplaces safe.

“Sadly a failure to do so in this case cost a young man his life.”

The maximum penalty for the offence is $1.45 million for corporations.

Pakula joins Minister exodus in reshuffle

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Keysborough MP Martin Pakula has resigned from State Cabinet and will not contest the 2022 state election.

He joined an exodus of senior ministers James Merlino, Martin Foley and Lisa Neville who announced their departures on 24 June.

Mr Pakula holds a plethora of portfolios as the Minister for Industry Support and Recovery, Trade, Business Precincts, Tourism, Sport and Major Events, and Racing.

He was also a former State Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Transport. First elected as a Western Metropolitan MP in the Upper House in 2006, Mr Pakula later moved to the Lower House seat of Lyndhurst – later named Keysborough.

His Keysborough seat was recently abol-

ished in a electoral boundary re-distribution, leaving him with an option of returning to the Upper House for the upcoming state election.

In a statement, Mr Pakula said he would leave the Ministry “as soon as the Premier settles on the team he wishes to take to the election”.

Mr Pakula thanked the “beautiful people” of Keysborough, Springvale, Springvale South, Noble Park, Dingley and Waterways, as well as family, staff, colleagues and former Premiers Steve Bracks and John Brumby. He said Premier Daniel Andrews “continues to lead a government of consequence, bravery, compassion and delivery”.

“Dan has honoured me by allowing me to serve as Attorney-General, to oversee my beloved racing industry, and to support the

business, tourism, sporting and events sectors through the worst of the pandemic.

“A decade in the Ministry has taught me that a government with big ambitions for the state, its people and its future is something to be cherished.” Mr Andrews, in a statement, paid tribute to Mr Pakula’s “appreciation for good decent jobs – and for working people”.

Achievements included a redress scheme for victims of institutional child abuse, and luring the “world’s biggest events” to Victoria including the Formula One race for the next decade and the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

“You’d be hard pressed to find a Racing Minister with greater passion for the sport, just as you’d be hard pressed to find a Minister who worked harder to support the industry and the jobs it sustains,” Mr Andrews said.

Dandenong MP to head Mental Health

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams says “it’s time for new challenges” after being assigned the Mental Health portfolio in the latest State Cabinet re-shuffle.

Ms Williams retains Aboriginal Affairs – a job that has been re-named as Minister for Treaty and First Peoples. MPs Ros Spence and Natalie Hutchins take over her former roles as Minister for Prevention of Family Violence and Minister for Women. Meanwhile, Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny has been promoted to Cabi-

net with the Corrections, Youth Justice, Victim Support and Fishing and Boating portfolios.

Moordialloc MP Tim Richardson will be Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Social Inclusion, as well as for Schools.

The changes are part of a wholesale Cabinet reshuffle after the departures of senior Ministers Martin Foley, James Merlino, Lisa Neville, Martin Pakula and Richard Wynne. As Mental Health Minister, Ms Williams succeeds the departing James Merlino in implementing recommendations of the Mental Health Royal Commission.

“The truth is, you don’t have to look far to find someone who has been let down by the mental health system, and that’s exactly why we committed to reform. And I look forward to playing my part to deliver the change so many have told us they need to see,” Ms Williams posted on social media.

Ms Williams said her re-named Treaty and First Peoples portfolio better describes “the times we are in and the journey we are on.”

“We are on an exciting path – the first Australian jurisdiction to commit to truth and treaty.”

Long-serving MP bows out

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Upper House Liberal MP and former Minister Gordon Rich-Phillips will end his 23-year tenure in State Parliament this year.

On Friday 17 June, the South Eastern Metropolitan MP announced he would not re-contest his seat in November’s state election. Mr Rich-Phillips was first elected for the then-Eumemmerring Province in 1999 as a 25 year old – the youngest person elected to the Legislative Council. Serving as Assistant Treasurer, Technology Minister and Aviation Industry Minister in 2010-’14 was the “ultimate opportunity to make a difference for Victoria”, he said.

“I am proud to have delivered initiatives spanning technology, ICT in government, WorkCover, finance, and regional aviation.

“I wish Matthew Guy and my Liberals and Nationals colleagues and candidates every success for the November 2022 election.” Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said Mr Rich-Phillips was a “passionate advocate” for upgrading rural airports. “As a pilot himself, he was able to bring real change and vital support to a sector of our transport industry that is often overlooked.

“Over a number of terms of parliament he’s become one of the most skillful and knowledgeable MPs in the operation of the Upper House, a genuine respect which is shown from across the whole parliament.

“Gordon is a friend to many in the party.

“He’s a well-liked, very well respected colleague and his loss will be a big one for the Liberal Party.” Mr Rich-Phillips nominated personal highlights such as saving Victorian businesses more than $340 million with WorkCover reforms and premium reductions, and helping to deliver four surplus budgets in Government.

As Technology Minister, he reformed how ICT was purchased and used by the State Government and helped attract jobs and private-sector investment in ICT, biotech and small tech sectors, he said.

Mr Rich-Phillips rose to Opposition deputy leader in the Legislative Council.

He also chaired the Standing Committee on Finance and Public Administration, and select committees inquiring into the Port of Melbourne privatisation, the fire-services restructure, and the issue of lotteries licences.

He was also a member of the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee for 11 years. He thanked voters, his family, his staff and Liberal members.

“In particular I thank the preselectors who put their faith in a 25-year-old candidate in 1999.

“I hope I have repaid that faith.”

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CALD advocate’s passion

By Jonty Ralphsmith Greater Dandenong resident Zahra Hayderbig wants to be an advocate for the multicultural community.

Ms Hayderbig is an Afghan refugee who has recently moved from Greater Shepparton and believes that refugees can make a difference in society. Her goal is to empower refugees to realise the contributions they can make within society.

Although her move to the municipality was recent, she has visited many times and also been pleased at how active refugees and migrant are across the city centres.

“Refugees can shape the Victoria and Australia of the future.

Ms Hayderbig is also on the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s regional advisory council and was recently appointed Multicultural Priority reference group with Victoria Police where she represents her Muslim faith.

Anecdotal evidence suggests to Ms Hayderbig that the multicultural community are yet to emerge from the drowsy lockdown lifestyle.

Clearer communication could assist in continuing to get more people involved in activities according to Ms Hayderbig.

“Activities should be promoted and made more accessible for CALD communities,” Ms Hayderbig said.

“We have to raise awareness about how people can live the way they used to before Covid-19 so that people, particularly youth, don’t spend the weekend gaming or get onto drugs or alcohol.”

With people from 157 birthplaces, the council does not translate information given the vast number of languages spoken, however the website has google translate installed.

“We publish a contact panel on all of our printed marketing collateral to promote avail-

Zahra Hayderbig wants to be an active member of Greater Dandenong. 283622 Picture: GARY SISSONS able translation services,” Kylie Sprague Executive Manager Communications and Customer Service said.

“We have found over time this support is the best way to connect our residents to the translated information they need.”

Ms Sprague also praised the councillors’ efforts to verbally translate for ward residents.

Council’s customer service team and various units utilise an interpreting service as required, both for telephone conversations and occasionally for events.

With employment, mental health and addiction among the issues that the municipality is currently facing, the Afghani refugee believes there is a specific way to address the issue to ensure the multicultural community are comfortable.

With mental health still a taboo subject in many cultures, Ms Hayderbig arranged coffee catch-ups and art classes in Greater Shepparton. She would then incorporate a mental health, employment or addiction element in a culturally-sensitive means.

In due course, she would like to bring similar ideas to Greater Dandenong.

“Counselling is there for everyone, that’s one of the main issues we can work together with different advocates to run a workshop or advocate.

“If you say there is a mental health session, no one will come but if you ask them to come along for a coffee chat and get a guest speaker to talk about mental health, the stigma will not be there.”

Among her other community involvement in Greater Shepparton was running citizenship classes, driving lessons and licence projects with cultural awareness and addressing barriers always underpinning her efforts.

Having stood for Greater Shepparton council in 2020, Ms Haydarbig received 900 votes, 100 short of becoming an elected independent councillor.

Resignations gave her the opportunity to become a councillor in Shepparton in early June, but she declined due to her move.

Ms Haydarbig is looking to nominate as a candidate for the 2024 Greater Dandenong local election.

Given her standing in society, Ms Hayderbig encourages people who see an issue in the culturally and linguistically diverse community to get in touch with her via her email address: zahra.haydarbig@y7mail.com

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Cr’s plan for Springvale

By Jonty Ralphsmith Greater Dandenong councillor Richard Lim is in charge of the Springvale Central Ward, having worked at his business, Lim’s Pharmacy for over 30 years.

Cr Lim believes the suburb needs a facelift to make it a more attractive stop-over for commuters travelling south towards Port Philip Bay or north towards Glen Waverley, and eventually he wants the suburb itself to lure tourists. To do so, he has a six-step vision to upgrade Springvale, as stage one of the Springvale Boulevard Project nears completion.

Star Journal would like to emphasise these are the views held by an individual councillor and do not necessarily represent the views of the Greater Dandenong council, and there are no formal plans in place to realise this vision.

1 – Toilets Cr Lim says toilets a necessity to lure people on to the streets. Too often, Cr Lim has had people walk into his pharmacy on Balmoral Avenue asking if they could use the pharmacy’s toilet as they do not know where else to go.

There is one council-maintained toilet – in the same complex as the multi-level carpark in Springvale as well as those within the eateries, but Cr Lim says that is not enough.

“There are no shortcuts to better maintaining and adding new toilets,” he said.

Cr Lim proposed vacant land near Lim’s Pharmacy or land near the roundabout where Balmoral St and Buckingham Avenue intersect as potential locations for the toilet. Council could buy or rent the land, with the toilets to be maintained by private investors, under Cr Lim’s plan.

Springvale North Councillor Sean O’Reilly sees the merit in such a plan, however has not received complaints about toilet shortages. With Covid-19 causing funding shortfalls across the board, Cr O’Reilly therefore does not see it as a priority.

2 – Arcade Cr Lim said his phone rings hot from people wanting to play music and perform in Springvale.

Buckingham Avenue could be car-free and turned into an arcade, according to the vision.

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On Buckingham Avenue between Balmoral St and Windsor Avenue, Cr Lim wants to establish an arcade where they can perform - one way he hopes that Springvale could become more family-friendly.

The arcade would also accommodate food stalls selling different products to existing shops so as to not encroach on their business.

Believing Springvale’s nightlife could be improved, Cr Lim would like to see cars off that section of Buckingham Avenue during the evenings to encourage a relaxed atmosphere, with seats and gardens adding to the visual appeal and capitalising on Springvale’s potential.

There was $70,000 granted to do a feasibility study in the recent council budget for such an arcade which would be complete, Cr Lim hopes, in the next three-four years. Cr Lim would like to see the arcade overseen by a council-run group in an arrangement similar to the Dandenong Market.

3 – Multicultural Place Events are important for Springvale to become a tourism hotspot, so a venue to host activities is essential. Cr Lim would like to see a transparent roof put over the top of the area opposite the Springvale Shopping Centre entrance, near Gloria Jeans to add vibrancy to Buckingham Avenue.

A TV screen would also be installed, pro-

viding remuneration for the council, which he hopes would fund the place, as businesses would pay to have advertising while free movies are shown to the public or during cultural shows. Other businesses could sponsor different cultural shows to be performed and entertain the people of Springvale.

While Cr Lim could not say how much it would cost, he believes setting up the area with chairs to watch events would be a successful drawcard. This is a project he hopes to see completed by the end of 2023.

4 – Multicultural Museum Cr Lim would like to see a multicultural museum with artefacts from cultures that make up the municipality placed in the Springvale Community Hub. Voiceovers and different exhibits about the cultures could further enhance the museum experience. It would increase Springvale’s reputation as a mecca with cultural tapestry from across the globe.

There would be TV screens where local businesses could promote their businesses and a souvenir shop so people could remember their time in Springvale.

Cr Lim admits this would be tricky to practically pull off, given money from all levels of government would be necessary. At the earliest, he said it would be completed by 2025.

5 – Carpark: Ideally, Cr Lim would like to see 500 new carparks established imminently in Springvale, understanding the importance of providing easy access to the precinct. Part of the accessibility would be to make the carparks free for users to further incentivise people to come out.

To fund this, Cr Lim would like to see a model implemented similar to what occurs in Glen Waverley where businesses would pay for the upkeep of the carpark, the establishment of which would be financed by a private investor.

Determined to encourage businesses to understand the benefits of such a scheme, Cr Lim said he would speak to owners individually to impart his belief that free parking would feed money into the local economy, and thus

the individual businesses would be better off long-term.

Likewise, Cr Lim wants to speak to businesses about upgrading shopfronts so the streets look modern and representative of the diverse cultures, rather than tired and old.

Given the cost of establishing a carpark and the difficult practicalities in creating space, finding an investor and getting locals on board, he understands that it may need to occur later in his vision. By the time it does come to fruition, the increased traffic to Springvale may highlight the need for additional parking spaces.

Currently, there is a multi-level carpark with over 500 spaces on Balmoral Avenue that is designed to accommodate people staying for a longer time to ensure street parking is left vacant for those who will quickly be in and out.

However, the carpark has received many complaints for being too narrow and it is not widely known about according to Cr Lim. Star Journal observed the carpark during trading hours on a weekday, and it was well below capacity and there were clear scrapings from cars.

6 – Gateways Private investors such as cultural associations and community leaders could raise money for symbols of their own country to be constructed around Springvale. Such gateways would be established in areas where there is a high concentration of that culture.

The monuments would provide excellent photo opportunities and further cement Springvale as a cultural drawcard.

Cr Lim hopes such a plan would lead to tourism packages being sought after in Springvale.

Such renovations, he believes, will allow Springvale to build on its cultural reputation: people could eat at a multicultural restaurant for breakfast and lunch, visiting a temple, the multicultural museum and arcade in between, according to Cr Lim. “I hope people will feel excited, like they have been to another country when they go to Springvale. We want to make something so different that people want to come back from other states,” he said.

Boulevard project on track for finish by end of July

By Jonty Ralphsmith Stage One of the Springvale Boulevard project is running ahead of schedule and could now be finished by the end of July, according to Greater Dandenong councillor Richard Lim. The communications manager for the contractor responsible for constructing the upgrade provided Cr Lim with the update on 9 June.

“He provided an update that it is likely for the Springvale Boulevard to be completed around the end of July if not earlier at the end of June which I am happy with,” Cr Lim said.

Minister for local government Shaun Leane and mayor Jim Memeti recently visited Springvale and Cr Lim said they were

The renewal will enhance Springvale’s visual appeal.

Picture: SUPPLIED “very happy and very impressed with the progress.”

“On the same day, I met with Helen Beekmans, Economic Development Officer to dis-

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cuss what we can do to assist with the issues raised by the business owners in Springvale, especially the street hot spots,” Cr Lim said.

“Video clips will be provided to assist the business owners’ requests. One of the issues raised was the street lights in front of a few shops and restaurants.

“Ms Beekmans would discuss with the business owners some ways that the Council may be able to assist such as training whether it is for free or paid by Council.”

The council was more cautious with its prediction, saying it expects the project to be completed in early August.

“We expect local businesses to see increased visitation levels following the com-

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pletion of works, noting the ongoing impacts of the pandemic,” “The works will assist to attract and retain sustainable retail, cultural and tourism activities.

“A high quality, revitalised public realm is delivered through these works that provides more seating for people to stop, rest and socialise. High quality, walkable and landscaped streets contribute to the wellbeing and economic health of our community.

“The project will transform the area into a highly accessible, functional and beautiful boulevard to attract more visitors to the area, create new trade opportunities and foster a renewed sense of community pride in the Springvale Activity Centre.”

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‘Committed’ to cause: Cr From page 1 “All of the people on the by-name list, we’re going to persist with them and hold ourselves accountable as a service system for making that happen so we will engage with you, put you on a by-name list and do every single next step that needs to happen until that person gets into housing. People who stay on the list – we will continue to work with them,” Mr Hatvani said.

“One of the biggest barriers to achieving Functional Zero which makes timelines challenging to determine is the growing shortage

of social and affordable housing in Victoria which is a critical part of moving people out of homelessness.

“Social and affordable housing supply that will be delivered through Victoria’s Big Build and the Federal Government’s Housing Future Fund can’t come soon enough and, in the meantime, greater resources are needed for the service system to support people.”

Mr Hatvani added that bringing together so many different organisations ensured funds towards those experiencing homelessness were spent more efficiently.

Without collaboration, there is a risk of people moving between services without addressing the underlying cause of homelessness, wasting resources of money.

Mayor Jim Memeti expressed support for the project.

“We are committed to ending rough sleeping in our municipality and continue to collaborate with many government and nongovernment organisations to address the complex issue of homelessness,” Cr Memeti said.

“Council is very excited to have recently

partnered with Launch Housing to implement a new initiative ‘Dandenong Zero’, a project specifically crafted to end rough sleeping in our municipality and work in collaboration with the local service system.”

The following organisations are all involved: City of Greater Dandenong, Launch Housing, WAYSS, Monash Health, The Salvation Army, ERMHA, Wintringham, Centre for Multicultural Youth, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, Cornerstone, Crossway Life Care, EACH, Victoria Police, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, Department of Justice.

VCAT upholds ‘dangerous dog’ ruling for three crossbreeds

By Eleanor Wilson An Endeavour Hills man may lose ownership of at least one of his three dogs, after a VCAT appeal upheld Casey Council’s dangerous dog ruling against them.

Casey Council assigned a dangerous dog ruling over three Bull Arab-Staghound cross dogs that attacked a two-year-old cavoodle named Zeus and injured his owner in 2020.

The cross dogs’ owner Mr Z Georgiou filed an appeal with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

In the 10 June ruling, VCAT Senior Member J Billings said he considered it to be more likely than not that the dogs will repeat the attack if the dangerous dog measures were not in place.

Mr Georgiou was not present on the day of the attack on 22 October 2020, when his partner at the time let the dogs out of the rear part of property against Mr Georgiou’s wishes, leading them to escape through a faulty catch on the front screen door.

The dog’s then chased after Zeus, who was being walked by his owner on the footpath, with one dog biting the cavoodle’s head while the other two dogs bit his back legs.

VCAT has affirmed Casey Council’s decision to enforce a dangerou dog ruling on three Bull Arab-Staghound crosses.

Picture: BRIAN TURNER, FLICKR, CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE Zeus was left with puncture wounds to his neck and back which were later operated on by a veterinarian.

His owner was also injured in the attack when he tried to free Zeus from the Bull ArabStaghounds’ mouths, receiving sutures for lacerations to his hand and opposite forearm. “[Mr Georgiou] says that there has never been an incident like it before, and that there could never be again,” Mr Billings said.

“Wherever he lives, Mr Georgiou told me that he would avoid problems in future by staying home with the dogs and not having visitors.

“I do not consider that it is realistic for Mr Georgiou to propose living in this way indefinitely.

“I do not consider, either, that this would adequately prevent future attacks.”

Mr Billings said it is a possibility that there will be a new owner of at least one of the dogs, given Mr Georgiou does not have the excess animal permit needed to house more than two dogs at the property.

If Mr Georgiou were now to apply for an excess animal permit it is unlikely that the Council would grant him one, Mr Billings said.

“For the time being, nothing can be known about any new owner, or about the way in which any new owner would house any dog(s) that Mr Georgiou did not keep,” he reasoned.

Despite being bred and trained for pig hunting, Mr Georgiou argued the dogs had never been taken pig hunting and were “human friendly” and “loveable”, Mr Billings said.

Mr Georgiou also argued the dogs’ provide him with emotional support, after he was victim to a home invasion several years ago which left him with a mental health con-

‘Concern’ shared on wetlands cemetery

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council has hopes that Melbourne Water will join in opposition against a proposed cemetery on Dandenong Creek floodplains.

The Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust has indicated the site is its preferred location for its next burial ground in the South East, despite furious community and council criticism.

Council chief executive John Bennie told a council meeting on 14 June that it had met with the water authority, which owns the proposed site at 1564 Heatherton Road, Dandenong.

“We are pleased to hear that Melbourne Water shares similar concerns to Council,” Mr Bennie said..

“But Melbourne Water is obliged to give the proponent the appropriate opportunities to respond to their high-level expectations again

around hydrology, ecology, environment, social and cultural impacts.”

Mr Bennie said the council had also lobbied the proponent SMCT to not proceed on the wetlands.

“The proponent has, within their right, decided to not accept that position at this point in time.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning had not received a “live application” for the cemetery, Mr Bennie said..

“Can I just say that the advocacy against this proposal is continuing and that we are hearing from those that are in positions to consider it, that they share Council and the community’s concerns.”

Councillor Rhonda Garad told Star Journal she hoped the trust would now publicly rule out the Dandenong site.

“Melbourne Water doesn’t seem to be hand-

ing over the land (to the SMCT) so hopefully we can get a definitive answer.”

Earlier this month, SMCT said it was still “actively investigating appropriate sites”.

“However due to the size of land required in this fast-growing region, options are limited.”

The spokesperson said the Dandenong site offered the “open green space and conservation values” required for a new memorial park.

“Once a site is chosen, we propose to create a memorial park that has significant amenities to the local community and this site offers the open green space and conservation values to facilitate that.

“Any site will be subject to community consultation and environmental and planning approvals.”

A Melbourne Water spokesperson said: “We have nothing to add at this stage”.

SMCT was contacted for further comment.

Casey Council reappoints Patterson as CEO Casey Council administrators have voted unanimously to reappoint City of Casey chief executive officer Glenn Patterson for a further five years from September 2022.

Mr Patterson became CEO of Casey City Council in mid-September 2018. He had previously been CEO of Yarra Ranges Council for ten years, and CEO of Baw Baw Shire Council and Colac Otway Shire Council before then.

Casey Council chief of administrators Nolene Duff concurred Mr Patterson’s leadership of the council “presents a high level of excellence.”

“Glenn has a tremendous amount of experience and continuously demonstrates a real passion, interest in and deep knowledge of the Casey community,” Ms Duff said.

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Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

“In reviewing his performance, the CEO Employment and Remuneration Committee particularly acknowledged his contribution and work done in incredibly challenging circumstances, especially over the last few years.

“Council will be doing all that we can to ensure we continue to work closely with the organisation, under Glenn’s leadership, in the best interests of Casey’s growing and diverse community and as we prepare for a new Council in 2024.”

Mr Patterson’s duty as council CEO includes preparing for a smooth transition to a new council in 2024, ensuring a financially sustainable organisation that delivers maximum community benefit, growing Casey’s

current and emerging economies, fostering environmentally sustainable and climate ready practises, advocating to State and Federal Government for key service and infrastructure delivery and ensuring good governance and transparent decision making.

Mr Patterson said he was grateful for the council’s confidence in his ability to continue in the role.

“Over the last nearly four years, I have found it both immensely rewarding and challenging,” he said.

Mr Patterson’s reappointment followed a performance review process, which was assessed by the Panel of Administrators and an independent chair of the CEO Employment and Remuneration Committee.

dition, Mr Billings told the tribunal.

“Whatever the dogs’ actual training, and whatever their actual experience, the dogs were bred for pig hunting and they appear to have behaved towards Zeus as dogs bred and trained for pig hunting would be expected to behave towards pigs,” Mr Billings said.

Following the attack Mr Georgiou’s partner was charged with offences including being in apparent control of dogs that bit an animal causing serious injury.

She pleaded guilty before the Magistrate’s Court but was not convicted, instead being ordered to pay compensation of nearly $7,000 which Mr Georgiou has contributed to, according to Mr Billings.

The dangerous dog ruling will impose a number of restrictions on the three dogs, including keeping them in a prescribed enclosure (with a concrete floor among other features) when the dog is not inside the owner’s house, to erect warning signs, to fit a prescribed collar and muzzle and to use a leash or other restraint.

Mr Georgiou’s dogs were seized by council officers shortly after the 2020 attack and remain impounded.

Man stabbed, stomped in Springvale A 23-year-old man was hospitalised after three hooded males stabbed him with machetes in central Springvale.

The man, from Springvale, was approached by three males and a female on Buckingham Street about 9.30pm on Thursday 16 June, Victoria Police say.

He was then knocked to the ground, stabbed several times and kicked in the head.

He fled for help at a nearby business and called triple-0.

The man was taken to hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries.

7NEWS reported that he has been released from hospital and is recovering from back and leg wounds.

Police believe the man and offenders could be known to each other.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Cox from the Southern Metropolitan Regional Crime Team said police were “following up a number of lines of enquiry” as part of their ongoing investigation. “(We) are sending a very clear message to anyone carrying a knife - if you are involved in violent behaviour that threatens the safety of our community, expect a knock on your door from police.

“Police have absolutely no tolerance for any form of violent or criminal behaviour, particularly when it involves knives or weapons.”

“The physical and mental damage caused by knife crime is devastating with victims, their families and loved ones left feeling endangered, threatened and vulnerable.”

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Let’s level the playing field

By Eleanor Wilson Nikki Gould and Ace Bryans’ relationship is not dissimilar to many sister-brother duos.

Much of their dynamic is built on teasing and poking fun at each other - particularly when it comes to sport.

Nikki supports Carlton in the AFL, while Ace is a diehard Brisbane Lions fan, and it’s fair to say they quite enjoy “giving each other hell” when their teams play.

But the Pakenham woman’s undeniable love for her younger brother is also clear- so much so that she has embarked on a mission to campaign for a more equal rights for her brother and others like him.

Narre Warren resident Ace lives with several disabilities that cause him to be wheelchair bound.

Dystonia causes him painful, involuntary muscle contractions, while Glutaric Aciduria type 1, a rare inherited metabolic disorder, causes him severe cognitive dysfunction.

The first Australian baby to be formally diagnosed with GA1, Ace was given a life expectancy of three years.

He is now 22 years old and loves nothing more than his footy team.

But when it comes to cheering on his team in person, accessibility becomes a problem for the family.

“The best thing about attending the footy, aside from the atmosphere, is the ability to banter with friends and family when your teams verse each other,” Nikki said.

“I’ve been to a few games with my brother, but we’ve never been allowed to sit next to each other.”

The seating plan at many sporting and entertainment venues, such as the MCG, are often restricted for spectators with disabilities.

Accessible seats are located at the back of each seating bay and set up to account for one companion or ‘carer seat’ per wheelchair accessible space.

This means when Nikki and Ace go to the football with their family, they are often separated.

Ace said he’d love the chance to pick on his sister when her team is losing, but can’t because they are unable to sit together.

At best, Nikki said she can sometimes find a seat near her brother, so that they can at least exchange glances at exciting points throughout the match.

Nikki Gould and her brother Ace Bryans. 285571 “I think the way they view people that need accessible seating is that [the seating] is designed to have a carer accompanying them,” Nikki said.

“But you might have a teenager with a large group of mates who all go to the footy together, but if one of them needs accessible seating, they’re left on their own.”

Wheelchair seating at the MCG can only be booked via the Wheelchair Seating and Accessible Seating booking line, which Nikki says is poorly managed.

“The only way you can get [accessible] tickets is through calling Ticketek and I think everyone knows how difficult it is to get onto Ticketek or Ticketmaster over the phone,” she said.

“It’s been impossible…they don’t answer the phone.

“For my brother, a phone call isn’t something he can do, but if tickets were available online he could book that.”

For Ace, he said he feels unheard and dismissed when it comes speaking up about the issue.

“I’m not a person who will say anything about it because people will just be like ‘oh whatever’,” he said.

Frustrated by the lack of accessibility for patrons with a disability like her brother led Nikki to create a petition to raise awareness about the issue and implore stakeholders to

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS make a change.

“It’s not just about the football and just about me and my brother, it’s about kind of creating a voice loud enough to make people aware it is happening,” Nikki said.

“It is discriminating and its not providing equal opportunity and access…which in this day and age shouldn’t be happening, but it really is.”

Her change.org petition - Equality for ALL spectators at the footy! Accessible seating & ticket rights for EVERYONE! - has garnered 810 signatures and endless comments of individuals sharing their own experiences with accessibility.

Nicki said her aim is to make the general public more aware of the issue, which she says also exists at many other sporting and entertainment venues.

“The aim is for it to become loud enough that it becomes political and they have to address it,” she said.

Since starting the petition, Ace and Nikki have been contacted by several parties, including the MCG, 7AFL ticketing team, Carlton Football Club and the Brisbane Lions to offer their support and involvement in improving accessibility for disabled spectators.

In a statement, a Ticketek spokesperson said the company is selling wheelchair seating online as part of a pilot with venue partners and is developing a broader digital solution to

Ace Bryans’ love for the Brisbane Lions fills the family’s Narre Warren House. 285571

Nikki hopes her petition can improve the experience for spectators who require accessible seating. 285571 improve the accessibility of ticket purchasing.

“Throughout this process, we are actively engaged in dialogue with advocacy groups and our venue, promoter, and sporting code partners to work towards better solutions to ensure people with accessible requirements have the same purchasing experience as any other ticket buyer,” the spokesperson said. “ Like all large customer facing businesses, we are experiencing a much higher than normal volume of calls to our call centres at present as a result of events being postponed, cancelled and rescheduled due to COVID and our people are working around the clock to respond to customers. We apologise if any customers have experienced a long wait time.”

The MCG and AFL were contacted for comment, but did not respond by deadline.

If you would like to sign the petition, head to bit.ly/3HEe1he

Police appeal for witnesses to attempted abduction

By Eleanor Wilson Police are appealing for witnesses following an attempted abduction of a 36-year old woman at Lysterfield Lake on Saturday afternoon.

At a press conference on Tuesday 21 June Casey Crime Investigations Unit Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Luke Shore said The Dandenong North woman parked her vehicle at the Churchill Park car park, at Arthur G Robinson Bushland Reserve at Lysterfield Lake.

Investigators established the woman was wearing headphones and walking east along the North Boundary Track, prior to Stonemasons Track around 4:15pm when she was grabbed from behind.

The man grabbed her around the waist and put a hand over her mouth, attempting to drag her to the ground, Sergeant Shore said.

The woman was able to break free from the man’s grasp, before running back to her car and calling emergency services, police say.

Sergeant Shore said there was no indication the man attempted to follow her after she broke free from him.

Police were treating the attempted abduction as an isolated incident, he said.

“If members of the public are able to identify the male in question, through any information they may have or from viewing our digital image that we’ve disseminated, we’d encourage those people to contact Triple-Zedandenong.starcommunity.com.au

A man wanted for questioning by Casey CIU detectives.

Casey Crime Investigations Unit Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Luke Shore. 286698 Picture: CHLOE HENRY ro or alternatively contact Crime Stoppers,” he said.

“We’re using every available resource we can in relation to this investigation to try and ascertain exactly what’s occurred and how we can ensure it doesn’t happen again.”

He said the woman was not physically injured in the attack but is quite traumatized by the events that took place.

“She’s quite shaken up by the incident, and we’ll put the support in place to assist her with that,” he said.

Detectives have released a computer-generated image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

He is perceived to be African in appearance, about 183cm tall, aged between 2040 years old and was wearing a grey beanie

and grey jumper.

They are yet to speak to any witnesses in relation to the attempted abduction.

“It is concerning to us. That part of the world is one of the nicest parts of our police service area and a lot of people regularly use that for recreational activities including walking, jogging and cycling,” Sergeant Shore said.

“I think any member of the public has the right to feel safe in that area anytime of the day, to go about their leisurely exercise on the weekend.”

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 7

FOCUS ON … SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Exhilarating global acts Australia’s Premier Circus” - Circus Royale – will stage an all-new circus spectacular this school holiday at Westfield Fountain Gate from June 23 to July 17.

Presented by Damian Syred, the new 2022 edition will feature new and exhilarating acts from across the globe. Starring fan favourites like the motorcycle globe of death and balancing talents on the high wire and new for 2022 our incredible stage illusions that will leave the whole audience bewildered.

The Lion Brothers direct from Columbia speed inside the spherical steel cage on motorcycles at over 80km/h with millimetre precision or balancing on the high wire with unthinkable balancing talents.

Rumah - Direct from New Zealand the balancing talents of Rumah and her chair stacking will be leaving you on the edge of your own seat.

Monchino - South American born man of mirth, endless laughter with his on-stage antics and gaggle of hilarious geese.

Cassie - Swinging high on the trapeze Cassie’s true circus glamour brings the glitz and glamour to the big top.

Other acts include High wire, wheel of steel, Spanish Web, Hoola Hoops.

SHOWTIMES: Thursday 23 June – 7.30pm Friday 24 June – 7.30pm Saturday 25 June – 4pm and 7.30pm Sunday 26 June – 11am and 4pm Monday 27 June – 11am and 4pm Tuesday 28 June – No show Wednesday 29 June – 4pm and 7.30pm Thursday 30 June – 11am and 4pm Friday 1 July – 4pm and 7.30pm Saturday 2 July – 4pm and 7.30pm

· · · · · · · · · ·

· Sunday 3 July – 11am and 4pm · Monday 4 July – 11am and 4pm · Tuesday 5 July – No show · Wednesday 6 July – 4pm and 7.30pm · Thursday 7 July – 11am and 4pm · Friday 8 July – 4pm and 7.30pm · Saturday 9 July – 4pm and 7.30pm · Sunday 10 July – 11am and 4pm · Monday 11 July – No show · Tuesday 12 July – No show · Wednesday 13 July – 7.30pm · Thursday 14 July – 7.30pm · Friday 15 July – 7.30pm · Saturday 16 July – 4pm and 7.30pm · Sunday 17 July – 11am and 4pm PRICING: · VIP: Child: $40 Adult: $50 · RINGSIDE: Child: $30 Adult: $40 · GRANDSTAND: Child: $20 Adults: $30

Circus Royale – will stage an all-new circus spectacular this school holiday at Westfield Fountain Gate.

*Booking fees may apply.

Keeping your kids busy and the planet happy With the next round of school holidays quickly approaching, many parents and guardians may be scratching their heads trying to think of activities to keep their kids occupied.

Read on to find out a few fun ideas to keep the kids busy in a sustainable way: Make your own backyard games: rather than buying new toys for the holidays, use a few common household items to create some fun games. For example, find empty plastic bottles, paint them white with red stripes and use tennis balls to make your own pin bowling set.

Go on an insect scavenger hunt: create a checklist of insect pictures of the bugs and other critters found in your backyard.

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Go outside with the kids and a magnifying glass and teach them about the little beasties around your home.

Build a little veggie garden. Pick up a small garden bed from your local hardware store, along with enough bags of soil, manure and other products to fill it.

Plant some easy veggie seedlings and use some icy pole sticks to write the name of the plants in the garden.

Not only will these activities keep your kids entertained and happy for some time over the holidays, they will also benefit the planet!

Originally published on realestateview. com.au.

·

Prepare yourself with a variety of fun kids activities for the next school holidays!

Picture: ISTOCK dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Warm up with winter crafts Armada Dandenong Plaza Launches Winter Warming School Holidays Program Keep the kids entertained inside with free winter warming activities at Armada Dandenong Plaza throughout the upcoming school holidays.

Week 1: Winter Warming Crafts What: Armada Dandenong Plaza has come up with a crafty way to keep kids entertained throughout week one of the school holidays.

Every day a new winter-themed craft activity will be available for kids to style, decorate and take home and use.

Monday 27 June - Beanie Decorating - receive a free beanie to decorate and style.

Tuesday 28 June - Ear Muff Art - receive free earmuffs to decorate.

Wednesday 29 June - Glove Puppets - create your own glove puppets.

Thursday 30 June - Hot Chocolate Mug Art - receive a mug to personalise and decorate.

Friday 1 July - Snowman Making - create your own snowman to take home.

Time: 11am to 2pm daily Location: Armada Dandenong Plaza Cost: FREE (all items provided free of charge) Week 2 Foost Kids Cooking Classes: What: Armada Dandenong Plaza is calling all mini master chefs to guess the ingredients and then create a different tasty dish every day on the second week of the school holidays.

Monday 4 July - Learn to make Traffic Light Fruit Salad Crumble

· · · · ·

5 July - Stack and make a Sandwich · Tuesday on a Stick 6 July - Create edible Snowmen · Wednesday and Snow Balls 7 July - Learn to make a healthy Ve· Thursday gie Bouquet with Corn Dip · Friday 8 July - Create delicious Apple Cookies Time: 11am to 2pm daily Location: Armada Dandenong Plaza Cost: FREE (all ingredients provided free of charge) For more information visit: www.armadadandeongplaza.com.au

Make your own Beanie Monster in the school holidays.

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Ear-muff decorating is among the free winter school holiday activities at Armada Dandenong Plaza.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 9

FOCUS ON … SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

This season at the Drum Theatre enjoy more exceptional events, experiences, and entertainment to connect with friends and your community.

Season 2 of Drum Theatre The Drum is here to support you and the local creative community. This season enjoy more exceptional events, experiences, and entertainment to connect with friends and your community.

From July to December delight in professional live performances with national tours by leading performance companies, including Opera Australia and the Victorian State Ballet, comedy, music and shows for children and families.

Don’t miss Circling Time: Songs and Stories,

Brass Monkeys Saturday 2 July, 2pm CHILDREN AND FAMILY

a performance by renowned Aboriginal singer/songwriter and proud Mutti Mutti, Yorta Yorta and Nari Nari man, Kutcha Edwards. The show explores Kutcha’s life through the themes of Country, Birth, Youth, Politics, Love, Culture, Healing and Hope.

Showcasing local artists, Drum presents Our Beat. Full of local creativity, audiences can experience a range of performances including singers, hip hop artists, dancers and poets.

Hosted monthly, this free event offers something new each time and supports local artists.

Circling Time – Kutcha Edwards Friday 8 July, 7.30pm

dren’s Festival in the September school holidays, action-packed with workshops and performances at the Drum.

Drum members receive generous discounts to many performances and local partners Beletti Restaurant and Ettamo Eatery - consider joining and be a part of your local theatre.

See you at the Drum in Season Two. To learn more please see drum.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au or call 8571 1666, 10am4pm, Monday-Friday.

The Barber of Seville Opera Australia Thursday 14 July, 10.30am (shorter version - 70mins) Friday 15 July, 7.30pm Saturday 16 July, 7.30pm

Our Beat – Monthly Thursday 21 July, 6.30pm Thursday 18 August, 6.30pm

The Little Mermaid – Victorian State Ballet Saturday 20 August, 7.30pm Sunday 21 August, 2.30pm

The Australian Bee Gees Show - A Tribute to the Bee Gees Friday 26 August, 8pm

DANCE

MUSIC

Open House Melbourne Sunday 31 July, 10am – 4pm TOUR

PERFORMANCE PIECES

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MUSIC AND STORIES

Get involved or just enjoy the vibe.

Revel in Encore, the Drum’s special monthly morning matinees. Experience a taster of the latest Opera Australia presentation, The Barber of Seville. Reimagine how Elvis’s life would have played out had he been born in Yugoslavia in the 1970s with Balkan Elvis: Aloha from Dubrovnik. Step Back In Time with Edith Piaf and Charles Aznavour. All tickets include a complimentary morning tea and parking voucher.

Look out for the Greater Dandenong Chil-

Songs in the Key of Motown Balkan Elvis: Aloha From Dubrovnik Friday 5 August, 8pm MUSIC Thursday 18 August, 10.30am MUSIC AND COMEDY

The Cocker Ronstadt Experience Saturday 27 August, 7.30pm MUSIC

Drum Theatre Corner Lonsdale & Walker streets, Dandenong | 8571 1666 DRUM.GREATERDANDENONG.VIC.GOV.AU 10 STAR JOURNAL

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STAR JOURNAL 11

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NEWS

IBAC Bill defeated

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A State Coalition’s bid to hasten the release of IBAC’s reports has been narrowly defeated in State Parliament.

Labor MPs, with the support of crossbenchers Andy Meddick and Rod Barton, voted down the Bill 17-16 in the Legislative Council on 22 June.

Opposition Upper House Leader David Davis had proposed the Bill to stop “unnecessary legal delays and roadblocks” to tabling IBAC’s reports.

Currently, property developer John Woodman is embroiled in a Supreme Court bid to halt the release of an IBAC Operation Sandon report into allegedly corrupt land deals in City of Casey.

He argues he has not been given reasonable

opportunity to respond to the report’s “adverse” findings.

Mr Davis told a Parliament debate on 22 June: “Natural justice rights do need to be protected but that is not a limitless point.

“There is a balance to be struck which actually enables IBAC, where necessary, to table where it is being tied in legal knots.”

In support, Liberal MP Cathrine BurnettWake said the State Government was involved in three inquiries into “serious corruption” – Operations Sandon, Watts and Richmond.

“Victorians first heard about Operation Sandon almost three years ago, and they still have not seen the report.

“The government may think it is a case of out of sight, out of mind, but Victorians deserve to see these IBAC reports before the November 2022 election.”

Labor MP Mark Gepp, in opposing the Opposition’s Bill, said it was a “Swiss cheese of Bills”.

“It is full of holes, and the Parliament should reject it.

“It contravenes the constitution of Victoria, it does not recognise the sovereign right of the Supreme Court of Victoria and it wilfully strips individuals of their rights, potentially, to privacy and a fair hearing.

“Nowhere else in the country does any other jurisdiction seek to do what Mr Davis is proposing to do here in Victoria.”

Mr Barton, of Transport Matters Party, said the Bill would raise the risk of contempt of court proceedings.

The proposed three-month timeline for witnesses to respond to adverse findings was potentially excessive, he said.

More time needed to find Woodman emails

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The State Government says it needs more time to produce correspondence between Premier Daniel Andrews and IBAC person-of-interest John Woodman.

The Legislative Council had ordered the documents after passing an Opposition-raised motion on 25 May. The relationship between property developer Mr Woodman and the Premier has been raised at an IBAC inquiry into allegedly corrupt planning deals in the City of Casey.

Mr Andrews was reportedly grilled in secret

by IBAC about his dealings with Mr Woodman as part of the same inquiry.

In a letter tabled in Parliament on 21 June, Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes stated a threeweek deadline set by the Legislative Council last month to produce the emails and correspondence was not “sufficient time”.

“The Government is in the process of preparing a response to the Order and will endeavour to provide a final response as soon as possible.”

On 26 May, Mr Andrews said he didn’t believe there was any correspondence about his relationship with Mr Woodman but the Upper House motion would be dealt with in the usual way.

Nearly a month later, Opposition Upper House Leader David Davis called on Mr Andrews to “come clean and produce this correspondence today”.

“Daniel Andrews has had three weeks - how long does it take to produce documents that don’t exist?”

The IBAC inquiry had heard that Mr Woodman lunched privately with Mr Andrews and MP Lee Tarlamis at the top-end Flower Drum restaurant in 2017.

The developer had successfully bid $8500 at an ALP fundraising dinner for the opportunity to dine with the Premier.

Mr Woodman’s hired ALP lobbyist Philip Staindl had told IBAC that specific planning projects weren’t discussed at the lunch.

Premier Daniel Andrews has said he didn’t believe there was correspondence between his office and property developer John Woodman.

Mr Andrews said in 2019 that the lunch was “principally” about sponsoring a charity golf day.

“He’s never raised active planning matters with me otherwise I would have stood up and left.“ At the time, Mr Woodman was seeking the

rezoning of Cranbourne West industrial land for housing.

His companies also donated more than $157,000 to the ALP’s 2018 election campaign.

This year, Mr Woodman has taken Supreme Court action to halt the release of the IBAC inquiry’s report. The case is ongoing.

Kristin Astouroghlian (right) with the seven other finalists, plus adjudicators Stuart Maunder AM and Christine Picture: SUPPLIED Douglas. 286434

Kristin takes centre stage

By Marcus Uhe Kristin Astouroghlian will be one of eight competitors vying for a Sydney Eisteddfod Opera Scholarship on Sunday 26 June as part of the 2022 Sydney Eisteddfod Opera Scholarship final.

The Endeavour Hills tutor and her fellow seven finalists were chosen from a field of 38 performers across Australia and New Zealand who have been competing over the course of the last month.

Each finalist will compete for a total prize value of $61,000 to undertake further studies in Australia, or overseas.

This prestigious scholarship discovers fine voices across Australia and New Zealand and provides an invaluable experience for young vocalists to perform live in a wonderful venue and with a well-known orchestra.

Ms Astouroghlian grew up in choirs and took her first vocal lesson when she was in Year 9.

She can’t pinpoint a particular performer or performance that she would consider her favourite, but tries to pickup bits and pieces from each viewing.

“Opera is a way to translate emotions, history, culture, knowledge, acting and singing, it’s all in there,” she said “From every singer, every performer, there is something to learn.

“That character has a story to say, and I pass on that story to the audience.

“I become that character, I stop being Kristin on stage.”

Her musical pieces of choice for the final are Polina’s aria, from The Queen of Spades, by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and Una Voce Poco Fa, from The Barber of Seville, by Gioachino Rossini.

The finalists will be accompanied by the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of the well-known conductor and Sydney Eisteddfod Ambassador Dr Nicolas Milton.

The Sydney Eisteddfod 2022 Opera Scholarship Final will be held on Sunday 26 June at The Concourse Concert Hall in Chatswood, Sydney at 2pm.

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Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 13

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

Dandenong Council has voted against the redevelopment of the town hall. Instead, we have a cheaper version consisting of a community arts and conference centre. Consider the kind of thinking that was needed when the town hall was built. Dandenong was a small town with no great asset except a market once a week – and yet the council of the time proposed and built the grand building we have today. The council must show more faith in the future of the city if it expects others to invest in it.

100 years ago 29 June 1922 Noble Park The main street in Noble Park was the scene of mild excitement on Friday morning. Local ratepayers who were present were specially interested. The Railway Commissioners recently leased, with the option of purchasing, a fine property in Yarraman Road to use as a poultry farm to supply poultry to the railway refreshment rooms. The superintendent was bowling merrily along in his car on a visit to the farm and all went well till he came to the middle of the Douglas Street duck pond. He went into the pond and stayed in - at least the car did. The gentleman waded out saying things not fit for Dandenong ears. Now that the Railway Commissioners have interests here, it is hoped that they will get as tired as local ratepayers are of getting stuck in the pond at the main entrance to the railway station.

5 years ago

50 years ago

Maralinga Primary School after it was closed in 2014. 149271

27 June 1972 Shops complex plan outed The appeal against Hooker Projects Pty Ltd building a big shopping complex and hotel/ motel at the corner of Stud and Heatherton Rds, Dandenong has been upheld. This follows refusals by the Melbourne and Metro-

politan Board of Works and Dandenong City Council and Dandenong Chamber of Commerce and Industry at a hearing by the Town Planning Tribunal. The tribunal bases its refusal on “misuse of the land from a planning point of view”. “To permit an additional centre approximately one mile north of Dandenong

Picture: ROB CAREW

would in our opinion amount to a misuse of the land from a planning point of view.”

20years ago 24 June 2002 Need to think big Sir - I am disappointed to hear that Greater

26 June 2017 School in ground zero for clean up The disused Maralinga Primary School is a pile of rubble, despite a push from parents and councillors to reopen the school. Excavators moved onto the Keysborough site to minimise vandalism and antisocial behaviour.

Maralinga closed at the end of 2014 and all pupils moved to nearly Chandler Park Primary School following a five-year merger process.

In January last year, more than 100 parents backed an online petition started by Greater Dandenong Councillor Roz Blades urging the State Government to reopen the school.

“With the age demographics of this area sure to change, and this being the only school site in this neighbourhood, this decision will be regretted,“ Cr Matthew Kirwan said.

NEWS

Cavy club celebrates

By Jonty Ralphsmith Australia’s oldest and longest-serving Cavy Club is celebrating its 60th Birthday.

The Cavy Council of Victoria will celebrate the milestone with a show on Sunday 3 July from 10:30 - 3:30pm at 41 Menzies Avenue, Dandenong North.

Cavy – the scientific word for guinea pig – is an animal that has provided great pleasure for people across generations.

The club meets once per month with shows providing the opportunity for people to show off their pets and interact with others about the wellbeing of the animal.

On average, about 40 members attend each show with two separate competitions; one requires the animal’s appearance and presentation to adhere to a book of standards, another category judges the health and grooming of the animal.

The shows do not require the animals to physically exert, and they sit on separate mats with judges individually examining them for hygiene reasons. The RSPCA indicated it had received no cruelty reports relating to the Cavy Council of Victoria.

“They’re a docile animal and the nature of the animal endears itself to people of all ages – we have people from 5-70 years old that are members,” vice-president Michael Carter said.

“It is a great form of social interaction and it’s a great way for kids to learn about responsible pet ownership in terms of feeding or health tips.

By Jonty Ralphsmith

There are 49 breeds of cavy.

“Because they’re not a powerful animal, they are also ideal because children can do their own exhibiting.”

There are ten shows per year with no shows during December and January as the animals do not cope well with heat.

Picture: SUPPLIED To find out more or explore joining the club, visit the website: https://www.google.com/sea rch?q=cavy+club+victoria&rlz=1C1GCEV_enGBAU987AU987&oq=cavy+club+victoria&aqs =chrome.0.0i512j0i22i30j0i390l2.2937j0j4&so urceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

Man jailed for possessing child abuse material

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A former Dandenong man has been jailed over multiple charges involving child abuse material of pre-pubescent children and infants.

Andrew Dierickx, 59, pleaded guilty to 12 charges at the Victorian County Court in Latrobe Valley including three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16 using a carriage service.

His charges also involved producing, transmitting and soliciting child abuse material.

Australian Federal Police seized a laptop, phone and storage card with images and videos during a raid of Dierickx’s home on 8 July 2021.

In sentencing on 16 June, judge Peter Lauritsen said the 61 electronic files depicted “very unpleasant” conduct, which was likely to cause long-lasting damage to the victims.

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Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

Refugee Week fun

Born and bred in Dandenong, Dierickx was interested in children aged up to 13 years and “some well under that age”, the judge noted.

In several cases, Dierickx had chatted online with women who filmed naked infants for his perverse gratification.

A forensic psychologist diagnosed Dierickx with a paedophilic disorder and “moderate” risk of re-offending.

He told the clinician that it started when a link popped up on a chat site, and “one thing led to another”, Judge Lauritsen noted.

In Dierickx’s self-described “fantasy world”, the offending “felt exciting because it was illicit” and became an addiction.

He didn’t realise the harm to the children until police referred to them as victims, he told the psychologist.

According to the psychologist, Dierickx was motivated to get treatment, but still needed to

understand the risk that he posed.

After his offending was discovered, the twice-married Dierickx lost his job.

He had previously worked as a Centrelink officer and a cook.

He was currently engaged to a woman in the Philippines, who he’d met in online chatting. Up until recently, he lived alone.

Dierickx had no prior convictions, pleaded guilty at an early stage, cooperated with police and expressed shame and remorse, Judge Lauritsen noted.

Judge Lauritsen said there were no exceptional circumstances preventing Dierickx from being jailed.

Dierickx was jailed for up to 56 months, including a non-parole period of 32 months.

He must report as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

An Indonesian cultural performance, kids activities and Uighur food were among the highlights of the City of Greater Dandenong’s refugee week event on Friday 24 April.

Greater Dandenong is a vibrant municipality enlivened by people from over 150 birthplaces who contribute to the region’s prosperity.

Mayor Jim Memeti – himself a migrant - highlighted the important role refugees play in the community.

“This week is refugee week – an opportunity to recognise the achievements and contributions of refugees in our city,” he said.

It comes after the mayor was among the Greater Dandenong councillors that visited Canberra last week to promote back your neighbour campaign calling on federal govt to make changes to visa system and federal and state govts to provide more support to individuals seeking asylum Afghan refugee Zahra Haydar Big, who arrived in Australia in 2008 also spoke of her passion to advocate for cultural and linguistically diverse communities in the City of Greater Dandenong.

Among the refugee and migrant services in the area that were in attendance included: Refugee Resource Hub, Wellsprings for Women, Victorian Afghan associations Network, SisterWorks, Uighur Association of Victoria, Indonesian Women Friendship Network.

Members from SisterWorks put on a lively performance for Refugee Week at the Dandenong Library. 286636 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

A bright solution

By Cam Lucadou-Wells South East manufacturers are being advised to look to the Sun to shine a path through Australia’s energy crisis.

Ewen Beard, sales manager from Leading Edge Energy, has been advising South Eastern Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) members on energy cost savings.

“There’s never a better time to look at reducing usage from the grid by installing solar or other means,” he said.

For now, many firms were protected from the staggering price spikes due to long-term fixed contracts with energy suppliers.

The ones in danger were those coming out of contract, such as an aged care provider whose annual energy costs were set to rise from $333,000 to $840,000.

Mr Beard said solar companies were offering to install panels for free and sell back the power to businesses for less than the market grid price.

Offering such a plan is Hallam-based United Solar Energy, which has received 50 expressions-of-interest from businesses in the past two weeks.

United chief executive Richard Vargas said the plan helped businesses which found the upfront cost for solar was “out of financial reach”.

“Many businesses are viewing this as a costsaving opportunity.

“It allows businesses to commit to a low energy rate which they can be confident is green energy as it’s the solar panels are on

their own roof.

“At the end of the agreed term the panel asset than becomes the company asset.”

The plan was tailored to businesses with $500-plus electricity bills and consuming most of their energy during daylight hours.

Meanwhile, Mr Beard said the high grid prices were due to coal-generated electricity supply “falling off the cliff”. Some of that was due to flooding of coal mines and supply rail.

This combined with skyrocketing international prices for coal due to sanctions imposed on Russia and a shortage of domestic natural gas.

Mr Beard said more renewable sources “on the grid” were required.

But the previous Federal Government policy hindered renewables by “twiddling their thumbs” and “propping up coal generators”.

“We have to still have coal in the grid for the foreseeable future.”

SEMMA chief executive Vonda Fenwick represents manufacturers who employ 16,000 workers and generate $3 billion for the economy.

At the moment, less than a fifth of members were reporting an immediate impact from higher energy bills.

Some of those electricity hikes were as steep as 85 per cent.

“Some are being hit immediately, some have contracts to protect them at the moment,” Ms Fenwick said.

“It’s a question of how long these conditions take to resolve. There’s no easy answers.”

SEB Awards breakfast United Solar Energy chief executive Richard Vargas says businesses are exploring solar installation for no upfront cost.

Hallam-based company formally recognised A Hallam-based construction company received a top honour at Master Builders Association National Awards.

Becon Constructions was awarded best commercial construction project in the $10-20 million category for their work on Federation University’s Morwell Innovation Centre at the awards ceremony held in Cairns on April 30.

Opened in 2020, Morwell Innovation Centre will house dynamic spaces designed to promote creative thinking and practice and support local enterprise and entrepreneurship.

Students from across the region will benefit from clear pathways from secondary school, through to vocational training, and tertiary and research, in one location.

The works included construction of a new two-storey building consisting of extensive piling due to a very unstable and reactive subgrade followed by the ground floor slab, precast panels and core filled blockwork. The lower level included a post tensioned concrete slab, structural steel and the roofing was Kingspan panelling with a colorbond finish.

The National Excellence in Building & Construction Awards are the annual culmination of a nationwide grassroots process to determine the best of the best in the industry each year.

To be in contention for a National Excellence Award entrants must be nominated by a local Master Builders Association and are required to progress from winning awards in their region through to being judged the best in their State or Territory.

Managing Director John Lehmann said he was very proud of the team that worked on the Innovation Centre Project.

“I’d like to extend a huge thanks to John Van Der Veen, Ross Clavarino, Dan Jackson and all the project team that helped deliver an out-

Becon were formally recognised for its work at the Master Builders Association Awards.

Picture: SUPPLIED standing project that has now been recognised in both State and National Awards,” he said.

“I would also like to give special mention to Claire Lehmann, Jason McCoy and all the Project Managers who assisted in getting the submissions in.”

Mr Lehmann also paid tribute to the team of contractors who worked on the project.

Becon was also awarded best Sustainable Project for their construction of a new McDonald’s at the Master Builders Victoria Awards held in Melbourne in January.

The company was engaged to construct McDonald’s “Restaurant 1000” in Melton South which was the chain’s 1000th facility in Australia. The project was also McDonalds Australia’s first ‘sustainability flagship’ restaurant which is serving as a pilot project for the business to test, evaluate and implement industry leading, sustainable innovations.

Becon also won a special commendation at the Victorian awards for their work on Mecwacare’s Robin Syme Malvern retirement village/ assisted living apartment building.

A lead-up breakfast has been scheduled as part of the revamped South East Business Awards.

The breakfast on 14 July will host past winners and share further information on the upcoming 2022 awards.

Guest speaker will be digital marketer Sam McEwin – the founder and director of ad agency BizWisdom.

Mr McEwin will share his “secret sauce” for increasing sales and growing brands in the digital age.

His clients include Oxfam, Palace Cinemas, Lexus, Omega and Ryco Hydraulics.

The 2022 South East Business Awards staged by Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce includes more categories and more eligible businesses across a wider geographic region.

“This year we’re expanding the footprint of the awards to include regions beyond Greater Dandenong, such as Casey, Frankston, Cardinia and Mornington Peninsula shires,” Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce president Lisa Moore said.

“There’s so many great business success stories across a wide field of sectors to celebrate.

“Whether you are a large organisation, entrepreneur, or a small business, we are looking to recognise and acknowledge those businesses striving for excellence in the South East region.“ The awards recognise outstanding business achievements and contributions to the South East area.

Nominations are open in the following award categories: Business Innovation.

Environmental and Sustainability.

Community Impact.

Business Citizenship.

Employer Engagement.

Micro Business.

Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure.

Retail.

Professional Services.

The breakfast is at Sandown Greyhound Racing Club, View Road, Springvale on Thursday 14 July, 7.15am-9am.

Bookings: https://www.greaterdandenongchamber.com.au/events/upcoming-events

· · · · · · · · ·

Train builder fined for part in ‘terrible’ workplace injury Train builder Bombardier Transportation Australia Pty Ltd has been fined $20,000 after a worker was crushed in its Dandenong South factory.

The company pleaded guilty at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Monday 20 June to a charge of failing to provide safe systems of work.

In January 2018, the worker was crushed as he was unpacking a 750-kilogram crate of glass dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

panes, the court heard.

The manufacturer’s instructions stated that the crate was to be opened from the front side, with the main weight of the glass leaning against the back of the crate.

However the crate was positioned back-tofront while rested on an inclined L-frame stillage.

As the worker began to open it, the glass panes onto his leg and hip. He was trapped

underneath, suffering two pelvic fractures.

WorkSafe argued at court that it was reasonably practicable for Bombardier to have a formal process in place to ensure the crates were loaded and unloaded correctly.

After the hearing, WorkSafe health and safety acting executive director Adam Watson said duty holders must do everything they can to keep their workers safe when handling heavy loads.

“When it comes to the loading and unloading of crates, employers must ensure formal processes are implemented, understood and followed,” Mr Watson said.

“If crates are positioned the wrong way, or are opened from the wrong side, it exposes workers to the risk of crush injuries. In this terrible case we’ve seen that risk eventuate.”

Bombardier was ordered to pay $7503 costs, on top of the fine.

Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 15

NEWS

Jail for debt bashing trio

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP and Cam Lucadou-Wells Two men and a woman have been jailed for tying up and beating a man for several hours in Noble Park over a $40,000 drug debt.

Piriho Abela, 22, punched the man and stole his car keys and wallet on March 19, 2021, after inviting the victim to his Dandenong home.

Abela assaulted the man for two hours as he demanded the $40,000 payment.

He then instructed an associate to drive the victim in the victim’s car to a Noble Park property.

At that house, the victim was tied up and his head was shaved as he was repeatedly assaulted by Abela and others.

Robert Eman, 41, and Amani Shbaro, 36, also joined in on the abuse, with Shbaro at one point holding a machete to the man’s leg.

An unknown person took the victim to Dandenong Hospital the next day for injuries including a fractured nose, multiple bruises and a swollen jaw.

Abela acted as a debt collector for Eman and Shbaro in a “premeditated and planned” attack, County Court Judge Kate Hawkins said on 17 June .

Abela, a young offender with no prior convictions, played a more serious role but Eman and Shbaro also instigated violence, Judge Hawkins said.

A jail term was the only appropriate sentence to denounce and punish such serious offending, the judge said.

Eman was jailed for 14 months and is

Stonemasonry fined after failing to control silica risk

already eligible for parole after serving 10 months in custody.

Shbaro was sentenced to nine months in prison with an 18-month community corrections order. She has already spent three months behind bars.

Abela, who has spent just shy of three months in custody, was jailed for 12 months and will be placed on an 18-month corrections order after his release.

Their CCOs include supervision, as well as drug and mental health treatment.

A Dandenong stonemasonry company was convicted and fined over failing to control crystalline silica exposure risks.

Hilton Stone Pty Ltd pleaded guilty at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 14 June to two counts of failing to provide a safe working environment.

It was fined $12,500 for failing to provide proper controls to reduce the risk of exposure to silica dust and a further $12,500 for failing to have the required guarding on a power saw.

The company was ordered to pay costs of $6157.

During a WorkSafe inspection in March 2020, an inspector found that equipment used to cut grind or polish engineered stone did not have controls in place, WorkSafe told the court.

There was not an integrated water de-

livery system to suppress silica dust, nor an on-tool extraction system to remove airborne particles.

The company also did not have personal protective equipment such a respirator, or health-monitoring checks of workers.

WorkSafe health and safety executive director Narelle Beer said exposure to silica dust can lead to deadly diseases like silicosis which is a scarring of lungs, as well as kidney disease, lung cancer and autoimmune disease.

“Employers must ensure all safety measures are in place so workers aren’t exposed to levels of silica dust that are above the exposure standard.”

“WorkSafe will not hesitate to prosecute any duty holder who fails to do all that they can to protect their workers from the harmful dust.”

The Winter Edition of your favourite family magazine is out now...

Pick up a printed copy of Casey Cardinia Kids Today Magazine from outlets everywhere.

Or, read the full digital edition as it appears in print now!

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WHAT’S ON Conversation circle Join the Conversation Circle at Dandenong Library and make new friends whilst practising English in a friendly, relaxed and safe environment. This program is suitable for adults. Low to intermediate levels of English language skills are required.

When: Every Thursday during school terms 6-7.30pm.

A Floral Muse Exhibition An opportunity to admire the beauty of the decorative use of flowers and plants to embellish home furnishings, create amazing public spaces and to learn plant symbolic cultural meanings.

Date and time: weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, starting from Tuesday 10 May, 10:00am. Location: Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 66 McCrae St, Dandenong.

·

Winter Warming Crafts Every day a new winter themed craft activity will be available for kids to style, decorate and take home and use at Aramada Dan. Monday 27 June – Beanie Decorating – receive a free beanie to decorate and style.

Tuesday 28 June – Ear Muff Art – receive free earmuffs to decorate.

Wednesday 29 June – Glove Puppets – create your own glove puppets.

Thursday 30 June – Hot Chocolate Mug Art – receive a mug to personalise and decorate.

Friday 1 July – Snowman Making – create your own snowman to take home.

Time: 11am to 2pm daily, free.

·

· · · · · ·Foost Kids Cooking Classes

What: Armada Dandenong Plaza is calling all mini master chefs to guess the ingredients and then create a different tasty dish every day on the second week of the school holidays.

Monday 4 July – Learn to make Traffic Light Fruit Salad Crumble Tuesday 5 July – Stack and make a Sandwich on a Stick Wednesday 6 July – Create edible Snowmen and Snow Balls Thursday 7 July – Learn to make a healthy Vegie Bouquet with Corn Dip Friday 8 July – Create delicious Apple Cookies

· · · · ·English for Work classes at

Activities for children will take place for children at Armada Dandenong Plaza across the school holidays.

Chisholm Skills Tuesdays 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, 311 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

Phone: 03 9547 2647, more information via the following link: springvalelac.org.au

·

Jobs Victoria Advocate Drop-in employment information Monday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at Springvale Library; Wednesday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

at Dandenong Library; every Thursday fortnight at CoCO’S, 2-3/48 McCrae Street Dandenong; Tuesday and Friday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at Springvale Learning & Activities Centre.

Contact Ali Abd Ali. Phone: 0452 647 522.

Email: pathways@springvalelac.org.au

·

Photography comp Every year Greater Dandenong City Council pro-

FOCUS ON …

REAL ESTATE

duces a Community Calendar for residents which features photos taken in our municipality. Residents can submit photos taken in their local community to win cash prizes and feature in our 2023 calendar.

All photos chosen to appear in the calendar will also feature in an exhibition at the Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre later this year.

Photos can be of architecture, outdoor space or something different that captures your imagination.

Prizes are $1000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place.

Submissions close on Friday 16 September.

Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/photography-competition

·

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Second go at life

Selba Luka, centre, receives her award from Mayor Angela Long and Deputy Mayor Sophie Tan.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Twanny Farrugia has made it his mission to

By Danielle Kutchel A tireless champion for African and CALD communities has been named Greater Dandenong’s Citizen of the Year.

Selba Luka, founder of Afri-Aus Care, received the award at an invite-only event at Springvale City Hall on Tuesday 26 January.

She admitted the award was a total shock, but a welcome one, and dedicated it to the community, staff, volunteers, supporters and

sponsors of Afri-Aus Care.

Born in Malawi, Ms Luka often says her heart is in South Sudan as she works closely with the south-eastern South Sudanese community.

Afri-Aus Care was born of her experiences when she arrived in Australia, where she experienced difficulties and hardship in her first years in the country.

The not-for-profit provides mental health

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Selba (front) and volunteer Veronica in the Afri Aus-Care veggie garden.

The organisation provides cooking classes for vulnerable members of the community. 213664

support, outreach and skills development for members of the African and CALD communities.

It works closely with youth offenders, providing them with a pathway out of these behaviours and into a more positive contribution to society. During the pandemic for example, ex-offenders helped create food hampers and deliver these to the most vulnerable in society.

Afri-Aus Care also works with “the mamas“,

African women who are new to Australia and need assistance to find employment and learn English. Many of these women are survivors of domestic abuse, and Afri-Aus Care provides mental health support too as they build a new life.

Speaking at the Australia Day ceremony, Ms Luka said she was honoured to have received such a prestigious award.

“May we continue to be united. Dandenong is a great city to be,“ she said.

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NEWS

Future in safe hands

Rays’ call-up

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Two Haileybury students are ready to take on the world. Anay Ashwin, 11, and Grace van Haaster, 14, both from Keysborough, are getting ready to tackle the threat of antibiotic resistance.

The students will represent Australia at an international competition that brings together some of the brightest and most creative young minds in the world to develop solutions to real world issues. The Future Problem Solving Program International helps thousands of students to develop critical and creative thinking, problem solving and decision making skills.

This year, more than 250,000 students from around 14 countries have participated in the program. Around 2500 students will take part in the competition from Wednesday, 8 June to Sunday, 12 June.

“Future Problem Solving teaches students how to think — not what to think,” Ms Kirsten Owens, Head of LEAP Programs at Haileybury’s Newlands campus said.

“Students learn problem solving strategies, effective communication and how to collaborate and they develop ethical leadership skills.

We are very proud to have two National Champions from Haileybury representing Australia this year.”

Anay is Australian Junior Global Issues Problem Solving Champion in the individual category. He is travelling to the University of Massachusetts Amherst to compete. The global issues problem solving component of the competition sees students research a topic and then use a six-step process to solve that problem and to create a detailed action plan.

“I was hooked by the idea of thinking outside the box to explore global issues of today and to then come up with ideas that could be used to help solve real world problems,” Anay, currently in year seven, said..

“This program has certainly increased my awareness of current global issues and how

The two Haileybury students are ready for the world stage.

I could use my critical and creative thinking skills to play a small part in helping to solve these problems. We have to adapt to an everchanging world and the students of the 21st century are the problem solvers of tomorrow.”

Anay hopes that eventually his talent for tackling global problems will help him establish a career as a flight surgeon with the Australian Space Agency.

“I want to combine my passion for space exploration and medicine.”

Grace is the Australian Middle Division Champion in Scenario Writing and will compete from Melbourne. The Scenario Writing sharpens creative writing skills by encouraging competitors to write about future-focused topics and possible actions, events and outcomes.

She has taken part in the Future Problem Solving Program International program since year six.

“I’ve written about many thought-provoking topics in that time, including space travel, refugees and artificial intelligence,” Grace,

Picture: SUPPLIED

currently in year nine, said.

“While the topics have their roots in current events, I’ve looked decades into the future to see how they may affect real life and the world then. I also like to look at how these events might have impacts that aren’t as well-known, such as impacts on mental health,” says Grace.

Grace plans to pursue a career in psychology and counselling. She also hopes to become an author.

“I have ambitions to write and publish a trilogy of books exploring and disassembling the stereotypes of dystopian fiction — think The Hunger Games of Divergent,” she says.

“I’ve already begun writing the first book and I hope that, someday, I’ll be a published author.”

Haileybury has been involved in the Future Problem Solving Program International for more than 20 years. Anay, 11, who is in Year 7 and Grace, 14, who is in Year 9, are the latest students from Haileybury to become National Champions and to represent Australia.

Four Dandenong Singrays have been selected in the Vic Country squad for the upcoming NAB AFL under 18 national championships.

Likely first round draft pick, Beaconsfield’s Mitch Szybkowski, Berwick’s Jaxon Binns, and Mornington Peninsula boys Finn Emile-Brennan and Henry Hustwaite were all among those selected.

Szybkowski is an inside bull with composure, smarts and a high work-rate prompting interest at the next level.

Binns put in a strong performance in Vic Country’s trial game getting plenty of possession and slipping past opponents Eight Gippsland Power players have also been selected including Drouin’s Jacob Konstanty, a smart crumbing forward Hustwaite has played across a variety of positions and was selected for the NAB AFL academy game in May that brought together the best 18-yearolds from across the country in a match against Collingwood’s VFL side, which his older brother Campbell captained.

Emile-Brennan is averaging over 23 possesions in his eight NAB League games.

Sam Frangalas (Berwick) Hugo Nosiara (Mt Eliza), Sam Latreille (Carrum Downs), Owen Williams (Mt Eliza), Cooper Simpson (Mt Martha), Nick Collier (Dromana), Taj Campbell-Farrell (Rye) and Ned Moodie (Pines) were the Stingrays who played in Vic Country’s trial match against Vic Metro in June, but missed the cut for Country’s final side.

Vic Country’s first match will take place at Thebarton Oval, Adelaide, against South Australia on Sunday, 26 June.

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SPORT

Vic Metro for Haileybury pair

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Jakob Anderson (left) and Olli Hotton (right) will both represent Vic Metro at the upcoming national championships.

Picture: JONTY RALPHSMITH say ‘hi’ it can make it that little bit scarier so I want to make it as comfortable as I can for everyone so we can make mistakes, learn and grow.

“I like to be vocal in the backline looking ahead of the field, setting up the boys as well.”

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Haileybury coach Matthew Lloyd has labelled one of his players a top-five player in the private school competition and another the “Steven May of Haileybury”.

Midfielder Olli Hotton and defender Jakob Anderson were each selected for Vic Metro in the Under 18 NAB AFL National Championships and have been selected for the first match against the Allies on Saturday.

Anderson and Hotton have both been in strong form at school level in 2022 after a collarbone and ankle injury respectively hindered their 2021 seasons.

Anderson’s best game came on the weekend where he played with confidence against a strong Caulfield Grammar side.

“He was like a brick wall for Caulfield to get past,” Lloyd, coach of Haileybury, said.

“He was enormous and so courageous in the air, his ability to beat an opponent but also intercept and save others.

“He was like the Steven May of Haileybury with the way he performed on Saturday and his decision making and skill has been good all year.”

Anderson was affected by a virus for the preceding three games he played for Haileybury, but Lloyd praised his leadership, a key focus for the 17-year-old.

“I feel like I get around to individuals really well, I pride myself on building connections especially with younger boys new to the program, I want to make them feel really comfortable,” Anderson said.

“I was new to the school in year 10 and I remember how daunting it was seeing the big boys.

“When they don’t come up to you and

him on the wing and in attack where Lloyd thinks his marking and goalkicking technique will help him excel.

Hotton’s best performance for Haileybury was a 35-disposal game against Geelong College three weeks ago where three third-quarter goals swung the momentum of the game.

Hotton’s growth lay in his kicking ability as Lloyd recalled that a majority of his possessions in 2021 were handballs.

Lloyd has high hopes for the youngster.

“He got tagged on the weekend (against Caulfield) so they’re going after him a bit because of the player he has become but he works through it – he’s such a good mark and so strong, so he’s hard to tag,” Lloyd said.

“He’s become dynamic and explosive this year and he’s such a good stoppage player.

“I believe he could be in the best five midfielders in the (APS) comp and I told him that at the start of the year to motivate him to reach the heights he’s capable of.

“I think he’s one of the cleanest and best stoppage players I’ve seen at school level and I’ve worked with some pretty good talent.”

As well as playing for Haileybury together, the pair each play for the Sandringham Dragons in the NAB League and share a strong friendship.

“Every club we’re at we’re together and we share lifts together, we’re super tight so it’s great to see him in the side as well,” Anderson said.

“We did a little bit of work during the lockdowns together and were always in conversations over texts giving each other feedback.”

Anderson and Hotton’s success comes after alumni Hugo Hall-Kahan was selected in the midseason draft, and kicked five goals for Sydney’s VFL side on the weekend.

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STAR JOURNAL 21

SPORT

Clarke cream of the crop AFLW 2022 DRAFT PREVIEW This Wednesday marks the long-awaited AFLW Draft where a plethora of local stars will sit on the edge of their seats anxiously awaiting their name to be called.

The south east region has been privileged to one of the deepest pools of talent to come out of Dandenong this season, with the Rays hopeful of getting as many as 10 players into the AFLW system.

STAR NEWS GROUP journalist TYLER LEWIS takes a deeper dive into those local hopefuls with a series of profiles…

AMBER CLARKE LOCAL CLUB: Narre North Foxes DOB: 22/12/04 HEIGHT: 171cm STRENGTH: Match-winning ability WHAT WE SAY: Where to even start…

Clarke kicked at least one goal in each of the full games she played this season, which was capped by a best afield performance in the losing grand final where she gathered 28 disposals and kicked two goals.

Excluding the round-six match with Eastern which she didn’t see out, Clarke averaged over 20 disposals and two goals per game this season.

The Narre North junior clocked NAB League as an individual this year; winning the best afield medal in the grand final, earning Team of the Year honours, club best and fairest and the league best and fairest.

Frighteningly, Clarke was just over a week from being in the 2023 draft class and from all reports has endless untapped potential.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS (Nick Cox): “The expectations of Amber have been quite high for a long time now,” he said.

“Playing as a 15-year-old, she is still only 17, she is born December 22… her expectations have always been high, but that is just because of the things she has done, not only in our program but back at local level.

“The hype around her has always been big, but the reason for that is because she has things other girls don’t have.

“That’s power; speed; she kicks the ball better than most; her marking ability is unbelievable, and I actually think she has a lot of improvement in basic areas that when she gets to an AFL program will make her even more consistent… I look forward to that when it happens.

“I think the thing with Amber is that she still has a lot of scope to improve when she gets into an AFLW system… which is exciting and scary at the same time.

“From our point of view, these players don’t come along too often and she’s a once in a coaching generation player I would’ve thought.”

MACK EARDLEY LOCAL CLUB: Beleura DOB: 13/1/04 HEIGHT: 183cm STRENGTH: Composure under pressure WHAT WE SAY: A player that should never be judged on her stats, but more her impact on the game.

That’s not to say when Eardley isn’t unambiguously the best player on the park that her stats aren’t appealing.

Eardley was the best player on the ground in a tight round-six win over Eastern, where she collected 21 disposals and was impenetrable in defence for the best part of three quarters before a shift forward.

She has the ability to play at either end, but takes conceding personally.

Eardley applied multiple tackles – recording a best of eight, twice – in all matches this season.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “She’s taken massive steps this year,” Cox said.

“I think she has obviously got a bit of height compared to other girls, but with her athleticism and fundamentals for that size, she will add something to any club she goes to.”

EMILY SHEPHERD LOCAL CLUB: Mt Eliza DOB: 4/5/04 HEIGHT: 167cm 22 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

Amber Clarke in pursuit of the footy.

Picture: AFL MEDIA

Taylah Gatt epitomises the old saying ‘it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog’. 287061 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT MEDIA

Emily Shepherd isn’t short on talent. 287061 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT MEDIA

Charley Ryan is ‘the most coachable player Nick Cox’ has ever coached. 287061 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT MEDIA

Mack Eardley has slowly improved her already strong fundamentals. 287061

STRENGTH: Immediate impact on games WHAT WE SAY: Shepherd looms as one of the biggest steals in the 2022 AFLW Draft.

Shepherd was impeccable throughout her bottom-aged year, but had a quieter year in her draft year. With unmeasurable potential, she will ultimately become the match-winning player she has threatened to be once reaching an AFLW system.

Was wasteful in front of goal at times this season, but has no issues finding the footy forward of centre.

Her best game came against the Tassie Devils, where Shepherd booted five of the Rays 10 goals.

Like some of the greatest players to play Aussie Rules, Shepherd doesn’t need 35 disposals to change the game; she is quite capable of changing the result with 10 touches.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “She has slid a bit (in the draft order), but you can’t take away from the fact that she’s one of the most talented girls on our list,” he said.

“Her fundamentals are top end, her ability to stay in the contest and compete evolved throughout the year.

“She will be more than a bargain for any club, I would’ve thought.”

TAYLAH GATT LOCAL CLUB: Beleura DOB: 11/1/04 HEIGHT: 171cm STRENGTH: Speed WHAT WE SAY: Gatt’s season was book ended by a succession of terrific games.

She started the season with strong games against the Falcons, Power, Pioneers and Bushrangers, before a smaller period of matches.

But she then finished strongly, with arguably her best game of the season in the grand final.

In the grand final defeat to Western Jets, Gatt equalled her season-high 15 disposals and also stuck five tackles.

After just three matches in 2021, Gatt demonstrated her projection is simple: the more footy she plays, the better she becomes.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “The thing with girls footy at the moment is that speed is really important and she has topend speed,” Cox said.

“She breaks lines, she carries the footy, her kicking needs to get better at times – she is only a small little player, but she’s got a mas-

sive heart and competes really hard.”

CHARLEY RYAN LOCAL CLUB: Beleura DOB: 2/9/04 HEIGHT: 173cm STRENGTH: Work ethic WHAT WE SAY: Had progressively improved since her inception into the Stingrays and it was rewarded this year with Team of the Year honours.

Before suffering a knee injury, Ryan had a succession of games where she was extremely potent in the front half.

Ryan’s best performance came in the big round-two victory over the Gippsland Power, where she booted an unblemished five majors and accumulated 26 disposals.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “The most coachable player I have ever coached – boys and girls,” Cox said.

“Her ability to understand where she needs to improve and work on those things is top end.

“The reason she has been able to get to the level she has is because of the work she puts in on and off the field.

“Obviously she broke down with a knee… if Charley Ryan plays in that final, we win, it’s as simple as that.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT SARAH HOSKING LOCAL CLUB: Pearcedale/Baxter DOB: 24/1/03 HEIGHT: 168cm STRENGTH: Acceleration WHAT WE SAY: Hosking will be a valued asset for any AFLW club on and off the field.

On the field, Hosking impacts the game in a big way with few disposals, and off the field, Hosking is described as ‘vibrant’ by her coach.

Her strengths both on and off the field were recognised on the NAB League awards night, where the Pearcedale/Baxter junior was the second Stingray in the league medal count and was also awarded the competition wide Girls Community Award.

The Community Award celebrates the NAB League player who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and contribution to the community.

As a 19-year-old, Hosking is ready made and would add to an expansion club looking for immediate impact.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “Last year Sarah was injured for most of the year and we didn’t get to see much of her,” Cox said.

“She come back in really good condition and I think Sarah’s ability to fit in wherever she goes is a massive plus for her, away from her footy.

“She is a vibrant person who is just a really good teammate. Obviously her attributes are to compete really hard and her speed when she has the ball in hand… she is an exciting prospect and gained a lot of momentum at the back end of the year with some of the things that she did.”

CHARLOTTE BLAIR LOCAL CLUB: Devon Meadows DOB: 04/06/04 HEIGHT: 169cm STRENGTH: Running capacity WHAT WE SAY: Blair’s 10-game season for Dandenong was swiftly backed up with some VFLW football for the Casey Demons.

And after a quiet VFLW debut, she has performed brilliantly for the Demons in her last four outings.

During the Stingrays season, Blair attained a double-figure possession account in all but one of her 10 matches.

For a forward of centre player, the dasher recorded just one goal, despite being a regular inside-50 contributor.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “Charlotte has played the last two games at Casey VFLW in their finals and she’s done quite well according to their coach,” Cox said.

“Charlotte’s ability to control what she’s able to control and not worry about any other pressures is a thing that’s got her into a

Charlotte Blair’s season is yet to come to an end, as she is still performing strongly for the Picture: JAZZ BENNETT MEDIA Casey Demons VFLW. 287061 position to give herself a chance.

“She is highly talented in a lot of the things she does, and she makes players look silly at times, she’s got good pace, her running ability is top end and kicks the ball really well.

“She is in a way a match-winner if she can get the footy in the right areas.”

OLIVIA ROBINSON LOCAL CLUB: Beleura DOB: 8/12/04 HEIGHT: 167cm STRENGTH: Unselfishness WHAT WE SAY: Robinson’s team first approach should never go unrewarded.

As one of the youngest Stingrays in this season’s crop, Robinson compiled an excellent season.

The Beleura junior collected 12 or more disposals in each of her 11 matches in 2022 and was a regular tackling force.

Round nine against Northern Knights was when Robinson announced herself, accumulating 26 disposals, having six inside 50’s and kicking two goals.

There’s already so much to like and plenty of room for further growth.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “Liv didn’t get selected for Vic Country and instead of dwelling on that – and I am sure she would’ve been disappointed about it – she played with us and just showed she was the best player outside of Vic Country in our team,” Cox said.

“That’s all she could control and all she could do… she finds the footy and got bet-

Flik Crank is the heart and soul of this talented Stingrays crop according to coach Picture: JAZZ BENNETT MEDIA Cox. 287061

Liv Robinson isn’t short of resilience. 287061 Picture: JAZZ BENNET MEDIA

Sarah Hosking has pace to burn. 287061 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT MEDIA

ter at the things that need to be done at the next level.

“It’s been pleasing to see her progress.”

FELICITY ‘Flik’ CRANK LOCAL CLUB: Mt Martha DOB: 19/01/04 HEIGHT: 171cm STRENGTH: Consistency WHAT WE SAY: Crank is a barometer.

In each game of season 2022, Crank recorded double-figure disposals and was a mainstay as a leading tackler.

In five of her 10 matches this season, Crank applied seven or more tackles – her lowest was just two, while her highest was

an impressive 11.

Like many of her teammates this season, Crank’s best game statistically came in round two against Gippsland Power where she kicked a goal, had 25 disposals and applied seven tackles.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: “She’s the heart and soul of the team, to be honest,” Cox said.

“She just does stuff that I am sure doesn’t go unnoticed by the next level, but her contested stuff is top end and she kicks the ball better than most, with good penetration.

“The question mark on ‘Flik’ is if she’s fit enough, but it wouldn’t be the worst idea to take a risk on Flik Crank.”

Rangers hold off Raiders

By David Nagel Dandenong Rangers are back on the winners list after the men’s team overcame a strong challenge from the Knox Raiders on Saturday.

The Rangers dominated the early exchanges, leading by 13 points at half time, but fell behind several times in the last quarter as the Raiders made a late run to try and spoil the home-court party.

But some steady shooting from Lawson Eales and Dyson King-Hawea guided the Rangers to an impressive 97-90 victory against a team with a much-higher ranking this season.

There were signs last week that the Rangers were ready to produce a strong performance against the Raiders, after Dandenong pushed second-placed Ballarat Miners in a heartbreaking two-point loss last Sunday.

The Rangers took that impressive form into Saturday night’s contest, leading by five points (23-18) at quarter time and building that lead to 51-38 after a 28-20 second quarter.

But any hopes of an easy night at the office were quickly wiped away with Knox returning fire with a 29-18 third quarter.

Beginning the last term with a two-point dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Deng Puoch on his way to 16 points against Knox Raiders on Saturday night. 287241 Picture: DANDENONG RANGERS FACEBOOK lead, the Rangers went point-for-point with the Raiders before pulling clear over the final two minutes of play.

Eales, with a tip-in and lay-up, made two clutch baskets for the home side, before a tipin to King-Hawea – with just 37 seconds re-

maining – gave the Rangers a match-winning seven-point lead.

King-Hawea top-scored for the Rangers with 20 points, while Eales was also important with an 11-point, 10-rebound, doubledouble.

Deng Puoch (16 points), Jacob Davison (15 points) and Ellis Biggar (15 points) were other shining lights for the winners.

The Rangers head to Tasmania this weekend for a double-header on the road, taking on the Hobart Chargers on Friday night before backing up against North West Tasmania on Saturday evening.

The news wasn’t as promising for the Rangers’ women on Saturday, who went down 80-42 to Knox.

On a difficult night for the home side, the form of Tenaya Sooalo (14 points) and Gemma Potter (12 points) at least gave locals something to cheer about.

The women will also be in Tasmania this weekend, taking on the Chargers on Friday night and the Launceston Tornadoes on Saturday.

The men’s team currently sits 15th, with four wins and eight losses, while the women’s team sits 16th, with three wins for the season.

Tuesday, 28 June, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 23

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